There was only one question on everyone’s lips when Arsenal’s team news was announced for the game against Newcastle at St James’ Park on Sunday – where was Ethan Nwaneri?
Photo by Justin Setterfield/Getty Images
Mikel Arteta made three changes from the side that drew with Manchester City, with Bukayo Saka restored to the line-up after Noni Madueke’s knee injury.
Cristhian Mosquera replaced William Saliba, while Ebere Eze came in for Mikel Merino. Ødegaard, back in full training following his shoulder problems, was named on the bench alongside Saliba.
The absence of Nwaneri was striking. The 18-year-old has been a fixture in matchday squads, and travelled with the squad to Newcastle, only to find himself not on the teamsheet. However, with the depth of talent available to Arteta, there will be some weeks, with players returning to fitness, when somebody has to miss out on the squad.
This week, it seems, is Nwaneri’s turn after playing his first full 90 of the season against Port Vale in the Carabao Cup.
There seems to be no indication that Nwaneri is injured, but we will update as soon as there is any concrete information from Arteta.
The starting XI read: Raya, Timber, Mosquera, Gabriel, Calafiori, Zubimendi, Rice, Eze, Saka, Trossard, Gyökeres.
On the bench were Kepa, White, Lewis-Skelly, Saliba, Nørgaard, Merino, Ødegaard, Dowman and Martinelli.
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