MIKEL ARTETA has promised Arsenal’s injury issues will be sorted before the start of the season.
And the Spaniard believes Kai Havertz, who missed Wednesday’s 3-2 loss to Villarreal at the Emirates with a muscle problem, will be back for Saturday’s home friendly with Athletic Bilbao.
Leandro Trossard and Riccardo Califiori were also missing at the Emirates but they could also be back in action for the final friendly of the season before the opening Premier League match at Manchester United on August 17.
The only long-term absentee remains striker Gabriel Jesus who has been sidelined since January.
Asked about Havertz, Arteta said: “Yesterday in training, he felt something and this morning he wasn’t quite right, so we decided to rest him.
“I think it’s going to be a matter of a couple of days, hopefully the weekend, if everything goes to plan, I think he will be fit.”
Gabriel Magalhaes returned against Villarreal after missing the pre-season tour with a hamstring injury.
Asked about whether Trossard and Calafiori will be ready for Old Trafford, Arteta said: “Yes, the three that we lost during the tour, it was big Gabi, Leo and Ricky, and for Saturday I think both of them have a chance if everything in the next few days evolves in the way it has been evolving in the last few days.”
Arteta also had more words of praise for 15-year-old Max Dowman who once again impressed against Villarreal, winning a penalty.
Arteta said: “He continues to impress, without a doubt. The impact he had in the game again today, the efficiency that he shows in every attack and action, it’s incredible.
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“Again, he deserves to have chances, and if he continues like this, let’s see what happens.”
Arteta also praised Noni Madueke for wanting to cut short his summer holiday to link up with Arsenal after joining from Chelsea.
Madueke missed a penalty in the Wednesday shoot-out but Arteta said: “He showed a lot of desire to come and join us from day one, and I think what he’s done is remarkable.
“I think it shows how much he wants it, how willing he is to put everything that he can to make this work.
“ I think the reception he got from all the supporters was brilliant as well. So, great.
“Again, another one through the door to have the first experience with us and on Saturday, go again.”
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