Arsenal Women head to Barcelona with several fitness concerns, although Renée Slegers has received some encouragement before Thursday’s Champions League trip.
Arsenal Women head into Thursday’s Champions League meeting with Barcelona carrying several fitness concerns, although Ona Batlle is expected to return for the trip to Camp Nou.
Renée Slegers’ side travel to Spain after Sunday’s 2-1 win at Liverpool, where Alessia Russo scored both goals.
The victory came with another injury problem, however, after Taylor Hinds required treatment late in the match and was replaced by Lotte Wubben-Moy in the 85th minute.
There has been no confirmation of the nature of Hinds’ problem or whether it will prevent her travelling to Spain but it is worrying.
Thankfully, Batlle’s situation appears more encouraging.
The defender missed the Liverpool match with a knock, but Arsenal’s official team update said she was expected to return against Barcelona.
There is less certainty over Stina Blackstenius.
The striker missed the trip to Anfield because of an Achilles problem and requires further tests, according to Tim Stillman.
Academy forward Mia Dixon was included in the squad against Liverpool in Blackstenius’ absence.
Chloe Kelly is also moving closer to a return from he hamstring issue, with Arsenal describing the winger as “working towards a return to the squad”, but there is no confirmation that she will be available on Thursday.
Mariona Caldentey remained unavailable against Liverpool because of her own hamstring injury, while Selina Cerci was also absent with a knee problem.
Neither seems likely to be back for Thursday.
Katie Reid remains sidelined with an ankle injury that will keep her out until Christmas, while Michelle Agyemang continues her rehabilitation from her ACL injury.
There was some good news on Sunday, however.
Daphne van Domselaar returned to the bench after recovering from injury, Frida Maanum came on as a substitute and Kim Little started, giving Slegers a few more options before the trip to Barcelona.
Arsenal’s next pre-match update should provide more information over Batlle’s return and the extent of Hinds’ problem, while Blackstenius’ assessment and Kelly’s progress will also be worth watching out for.
Thursday’s league-phase match kicks off at 5.45pm UK time and will be Arsenal Women’s first appearance at Camp Nou.
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