Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta could be without Gabriel Magalhaes against Newcastle(Image: Getty Images)

Arsenal suffer another huge injury blow ahead of Newcastle United clash

by · ChronicleLive

Arsenal's defensive woes have been further compounded after Gabriel Magalhaes was forced to leave the pitch early in the second half against Liverpool.

Already having to adjust with Thomas Partey at right-back and Ben White shifting into a previous role, Mikel Arteta's problems have worsened ahead of next weekend's clash against Newcastle United.

Gabriel required medical attention from Arsenal's physio team before cautiously getting back up. After a brief spell of treatment and time on the sidelines, he returned to the game.

But his return was short-lived as Arteta had to substitute Gabriel for Jakub Kiwior shortly after. The Brazilian was brought down after David Raya intercepted a cross.

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Jurrien Timber also came off after recently returning from injury. The Netherlands centre-back appeared to be suffering from cramp after a long layoff.

Arsenal are already set to be without several key defenders for their trip to St James' Park. Riccardo Calafiori was forced off during Tuesday night's Champions League win over Shakhtar Donetsk and is not involved against Liverpool.

Takehiro Tomiyasu and Kieran Tierney are all currently unavailable due to injury - and star defender William Saliba is suspended after being sent off in last Saturday's defeat at Bournemouth.

Newcastle, meanwhile, will be looking to bounce back from Sunday's 2-1 defeat at Chelsea when they host Arteta's team next Saturday.

“I thought it was a really high-level game," Eddie Howe said post match. "I thought it was two really good teams. I thought it was a brave performance by us but the game was decided by a couple of moments.

"I am proud of what the players gave today, if we continue to play as we are then the results will come.”


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