Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta faces a series of challenges ahead of the London derby against Fulham at the Emirates Stadium, with several key players unavailable due to injury or suspension.

Among those missing will be Jurrien Timber and Takehiro Tomiyasu, though the return of Oleksandr Zinchenko and a hint at Nicolas Pepe’s comeback may provide some optimism.

• Arsenal’s concerns continue with the absence of Timber and Jesus, but the return of Zinchenko is a positive sign.
• Gabriel Jesus has returned to training but is unlikely to feature this weekend.
• Long-term injuries and suspensions challenge Arteta’s tactical planning ahead of the Fulham clash.

The season’s early injury concerns continue to trouble Arsenal as Mikel Arteta’s side prepares to host Fulham at the Emirates Stadium on Saturday.

Following the loss of summer signing Jurrien Timber to a long-term knee injury and Takehiro Tomiyasu’s suspension after a ridiculous red card against Crystal Palace, the Gunners are feeling the pressure.

Another area of concern is the continued absence of striker Gabriel Jesus, who is still recovering from a knee injury sustained during preseason. Although he returned to training on Thursday, he appears set to miss the Fulham encounter.

In addition, the long-term injury of midfielder Mohamed Elneny, still recuperating from knee surgery earlier this year, keeps him on the sidelines for the foreseeable future, further complicating Arteta’s squad choices.

One bright spot is the confirmed return to full fitness of Oleksandr Zinchenko, who came on to replace captain Martin Odegaard late in the game on Monday night.

This was a positive sign for fans who have been eagerly watching Zinchenko’s recovery from a calf injury that sidelined him earlier this year. His comeback provides some much-needed reinforcement in the full-back department.