Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has provided an update on Ben White and Bukayo Saka ahead of the second leg of the League Cup semi-final at Newcastle United on Wednesday.
The Gunners registered a stunning 5-1 win over Manchester City in the Premier League last weekend. They will aim to carry the momentum into the cup tie.
Arsenal are trailing 2-0 after the first leg at the Emirates Stadium. They need a huge performance at St James’ Park to overturn the deficit and qualify for the final at Wembley Stadium.
Ahead of the showdown, Arteta confirmed that White is not fit to play yet (via Sky Sports). He said: “No news from the game against City. Ben is still out, hopefully after the break he will be available.”
When pressed on a possible return date for Saka after hamstring surgery, Arteta added: “I don’t know”.
The Gunners sent a massive statement to league leaders Liverpool with the 5-1 rout of City. They dominated proceedings in the second half and could have won by a bigger margin.
Arsenal now need to focus on the Magpies. The Gunners have a nine-day break after tomorrow’s visit. Arteta will hope his players will give everything on the pitch to overturn the deficit.
The Gunners will be beaming with confidence after the stunning victory on Sunday and must make a quick start with a goal at St James Park to pile pressure on the home team.
Arsenal have been on the losing end in the last two visits to the stadium, but they won 2-0 before that.
The London giants squandered six big chances during the first leg. The players must capitalise on any clear-cut scoring opportunities tomorrow.
Stats from Sofascore.com.
