Former Premier League manager Tim Sherwood has said that Arsenal will be without their best player against Spurs this weekend.
The Gunners are preparing to return from the international break, and it is fair to say it has been somewhat damaging. Defenders Gabriel and Riccardo Calafiori both suffered injuries whilst away, which is a major blow for Arteta.
Arsenal will have their full focus on trying to extend their lead at the top of the Premier League table, as they are currently four points above Man City. However, with a game against rivals Spurs coming at the weekend, Gabriel is likely to miss the match, which will make their task that bit harder.
Former Tottenham and Aston Villa manager Tim Sherwood claims that Gabriel is their best player, and that not having him against Spurs will be a massive blow for Arteta. He said on Sky Sports: “I would say their best player this season, most instrumental player this season.
“Leadership quality going into a North London derby this weekend, there is no bigger game. Arsenal flying high at the top of the league, you need your players. Him and Saliba for me are the best centre-half partnership in the league at the moment. It’s a huge blow for Arsenal and Mikel Arteta.”
Will Calafiori play for Arsenal against Spurs?
The absence of Gabriel will be a huge problem for Arteta, but the bonus is that he does expected Calafiori to be available, despite him suffering a minor injury whilst away with the Italy national team.
Calafiori can either play as a centre-back or a left-back, so could potentially replace Gabriel alongside William Saliba, allowing Myles Lewis-Skelly to play at left-back.
If not, then you would expect Calafiori to play left-back, and one of Piero Hincapie or Cristhian Mosquera to fill in for Gabriel at centre-half.
Click here to see how Alan Smith predicted the North London derby will go this weekend.
