Mesut Ozil, Aaron Ramsey and Rob Holding are set to miss Arsenal’s Premier League showdown against Huddersfield on Saturday, according to the Evening Standard.
The newspaper claim German playmaker Ozil is still suffering from the back problem that forced him out of the Europa League clash against Vorskla Poltava, Sunday’s win over Tottenham and Wednesday night’s 2-2 draw at Manchester United.
The Standard report that Ramsey is a major doubt after being forced off at half-time at Old Trafford with a twisted ankle, while Holding is facing a lengthy spell on the sidelines after being stretchered off with what Unai Emery described as a “big” knee injury.
OPINION
Somewhat improbably, it is the injury of rejuvenated centre-back Holding which will be causing the most angst to Emery ahead of the home fixture against Huddersfield. The manager would certainly love to be able to call upon Ozil and Ramsey, but neither are the nailed-on starters they once were despite their senior status at the club. Indeed, it is doubtful Ozil would win his place back in the side, given the strides made in recent times, most notably with that marvellous comeback against Tottenham last weekend. With Laurent Koscielny and Nacho Monreal sidelined, Holding has stepped up and been a key member of the 20-match unbeaten run that has brought the sunshine back to Arsenal after years of gloom. Operating in a three-man defence, the 23-year-old has looked the real deal and a far more consistent performer than he ever was under Arsene Wenger. It is likely Stephan Lichtsteiner will replace him this weekend.