Gabriel Magalhaes injury blow could rule eight stars out of Arsenal vs Crystal Palace

Arsenal will be eyeing up a win over Crystal Palace to maintain their lead at the top of the Premier League as they look to stay a few points clear of Liverpool and Manchester City

Arsenal could be without as many as five key players for their Premier League showdown with Crystal Palace at the Emirates Stadium. The Gunners are currently sitting pretty at the top of the table, three points clear of Manchester City in second and four ahead of Liverpool in third.

However, that lead could be under threat by the time Mikel Arteta’s men take to the pitch against Palace. Liverpool are set to face Brentford tonight, while City will be locking horns with Aston Villa at the same time as Arsenal’s clash with Palace.

Arteta has been dealt a significant blow in the run-up to the game, with Gabriel Magalhaes unable to train after sustaining an injury in the victory over Atletico Madrid in the Champions League.

When quizzed about injuries during his Friday press conference, Arteta revealed: “Not much, obviously big Gabi had to leave the pitch with an issue, and he hasn’t been able to train yet, so let’s see how he evolves in the next 24 hours, whether he’s available or not for the weekend.”

Martin Odegaard is also unlikely to make an appearance this weekend, with a knee injury expected to keep him sidelined until the November international break. Kai Havertz is facing a similar return date as he recovers from a knee injury.

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Noni Madueke and Gabriel Jesus have also been ruled out of this weekend’s clash, with the latter expected to make his comeback in the New Year.

Palace manager Oliver Glasner will be without midfielders Cheick Doucoure, Caleb Kporha and Chadi Riad due to long-term injuries.

“We’ve no injury concerns – all players are fit, all players look really good and are in good shape, so we’re ready for our first home game in the Conference League,” Glasner stated ahead of the Eagles’ Europa League clash with AEK Larnaca.

“[We will pick] the best team, like always. We had five days between Bournemouth and Larnaca.

“The international [players] got two days off to recover, and we’ve prepared yesterday and today – short sessions, but the players look really sharp.

“We will play the best team [against Larnaca]. That makes sense for us, and [then] prepare for Arsenal.”

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