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Arsenal have received a significant boost ahead of this weekend’s Premier League clash with Crystal Palace, with Declan Rice and Ricardo Calafiore expected to return.
Declan Rice is set to rejoin the squad after missing Arsenal’s 3-2 Carabao Cup win over Crystal Palace on Wednesday with a minor injury. His return will provide much-needed stability in midfield as the Gunners aim to close the gap on league leaders Liverpool.
Meanwhile, summer signing Ricardo Calafiore is also ready to return. The 22-year-old Italian has endured a challenging first season at Arsenal, plagued by injuries.
Calafiore has endured several different setbacks this season, including a calf issue in September and a knee injury in late October that sidelined him for more than a month. His most recent issue in late November forced him to miss five more games. (transfer market)
Despite being hampered by injuries, Calafiore’s return could add much-needed depth to Arsenal’s defensive options as they head into a busy schedule.
Ahead of this weekend’s game, Mikel Arteta confirmed both Rice and Calafiore are back. When asked about their health status, he said (via Arsenal official website): “They can all join the team.”
Carabao Cup drama sets the stage for possibility of north London derby final
Arsenal benefit from midweek Carabao Cup win over Crystal Palace Gabriel Jesus’ brilliant second-half hat-trick was a player related to eviction. Mateta gave Palace the lead early in the first half and former Gunner Eddie Nketiah pulled one back late on, but Mikel Arteta’s side held on to ensure berthed in the semi-finals.
The Gunners will face strong Newcastle United in the next round, while their north London rivals Tottenham Hotspur face Liverpool in the other semi-final. Should Arsenal and Tottenham both advance, it would open up the tantalizing prospect of a north London derby final.
Arsenal’s focus is now back on the Premier League as they prepare for another match against Crystal Palace. With key players back, Arteta will be hoping to pick up three points and close the gap between his side and Liverpool at the top of the table.
