Arsene Wenger has given a crucial update on the fitness of Laurent Koscielny as Arsenal prepare for a trip to non-league Sutton United. The defender limped off just after half-time during the defeat to Bayern Munich and is set for a scan (via Arsenal.com).
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Matchday: Match Preview – Team News – Betting Preview
Match: Sutton United v Arsenal
Stadium: Gander Green Lane
Kick-Off (GMT): Mon 20 Feb 19:55
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There’s a real feeling of David vs Goliath ahead of Arsenal’s trip to non-league Sutton United. However, considering what has happened to Arsenal in the last couple of days, the Gunners are probably David.
Arsene Wenger’s future was the main topic of conversation in his pre-match press conference but he also gave the latest team news ahead of the clash. The most pressing issue was the fitness of Laurent Koscielny and the boss was pressed for an update.
“He has a scan today,” Wenger claimed before confirming that he would take a “normal team” to Sutton United for the game.
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It seems that this team will also have a mix of youth and experience. Jeff Reine-Adelaide and Ainsley Maitland-Niles have starred in cup competitions this season. So much so that the pair have even broken into the squad for Premier League matches. Wenger confirmed that both players will once again be involved.
“Yes, but I gave a chance because they deserve to play and have a good opportunity to show they can come in for players who usually play,” Wenger confirmed.
“I think they have done well and one or two might have an opportunity to say they can play in every game now.”
A victory over Sutton United is an expectation but there is more than a little trepidation from many Arsenal fans. Three defeats in four matches have meant that the Gunners are effectively out of both the Premier League title race and the Champions League. The FA Cup is the only thing left for Arsene Wenger to win in what could be his final season in charge of the club.