By Frank Kamuntu
Mikel Arteta has said he is still hopeful Oleksandr Zinchenko could feature against Brighton despite the calf injury the Ukraine international suffered at Newcastle last weekend.
Zinchenko was forced off in the second half at St James’ Park and it was initially feared he could miss the remainder of the season.
But Arsenal have not given up on Zinchenko playing in their final three games and Arteta has refused to rule him out of the Brighton game.
Should Zinchenko miss out then Kieran Tierney will deputise in his absence.
Arsenal will definitely be without William Saliba, who is set to miss the rest of the season with the back injury he sustained in March.
Arteta said: “William will not be fit for this game, and he’ll be a doubt for the next game as well.”
Jakub Kiwior will likely continue to deputise at centre back against Brighton in Saliba’s absence, with Arteta heaping praise on the Poland defender.
“He’s been really impressive,” said Arteta. “Really composed, really calm and he’s been brilliant against two great opponents in the last few games. He’s dealt with the situation in a great way.”
Predicted Arsenal XI: Ramsdale; White, Kiwior, Gabriel, Tierney; Jorginho, Xhaka, Odegaard; Saka, Jesus, Martinelli (4-3-3).
Arsenal vs Brighton Prediction
Arsenal have struggled in the absence of William Saliba and Oleksandr Zinchenko. They’ll have to do without them for the remainder of the season. But Brighton look worse for wear as well with their own share of injury problems. Solly March, Adam Webster, Tariq Lamptey and Joel Veltman are all notable absentees.
Despite Brighton’s good record at the Emirates in recent seasons, we expect the Gunners to get the better of them this time around in what should be a riveting contest
Prediction: Arsenal 2-1 Brighton & Hove Albion
Arsenal vs Brighton & Hove Albion Betting Tips
Tip 1: Result – Arsenal
Tip 2: Game to have over 2.5 goals – Yes
Tip 3: Both teams to score – Yes
