Arsenal have been given a boost after tests revealed that centre back Gabriel Magalhães’ knee and ankle injuries are “not serious”, following concerns raised during the 2-2 draw against Liverpool on Sunday.
That’s according to The Times, who report that the defender is not expected to be sidelined for long.
Gabriel underwent medical assessments after being forced off in the 54th minute of the match, having initially attempted to continue playing following a clash with Liverpool’s Darwin Núñez.
The Brazilian centre back is likely to miss the Carabao Cup fixture against Preston North End but could return soon, potentially in time for key upcoming clashes against Newcastle United and Inter Milan.
Arsenal will be without Riccardo Calafiori, who is sidelined due to a knee injury picked up during the Champions League win over Shakhtar Donetsk, while Jurrien Timber was substituted after cramping up on Sunday, as he continues his return from a long-term knee injury.
Midfielder Martin Ødegaard is also unlikely to feature in the near future after missing 10 matches with an ankle problem, but there was good news on his recovery, too.
With Arsenal facing a packed fixture list, including upcoming games against Inter Milan and Chelsea before the international break, Mikel Arteta will be eager to have Gabriel back as soon as possible.
Liverpool, meanwhile, will avoid disciplinary action after Virgil van Dijk was seen kicking Kai Havertz twice off the ball during Sunday’s match.