As the weekend’s Premier League action approaches, managers have shared crucial updates on their squads’ fitness situations.
From Liverpool’s cautious optimism over Diogo Jota and Federico Chiesa to Newcastle United’s latest injury woes,
here’s the latest news from the top teams.
Jota and Chiesa: A “Maybe” for Liverpool
Liverpool manager Arne Slot remains hopeful that both Diogo Jota and Federico Chiesa could feature in Saturday’s clash against Fulham at Anfield.
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Slot revealed that Jota is more likely to make the squad than Chiesa, who has managed only three appearances this season.
“I think they are [available],” Slot said during Friday’s press conference.
“We have one training session to go.
Federico missed quite a lot. We have to see. Maybe Diogo is in the squad, maybe Federico as well, but that depends on the numbers we have.”
Slot emphasized the need for Chiesa to gain playing time to regain his fitness.
“If you haven’t played for five or six months, it’s sometimes difficult to give those minutes because you don’t know what to expect.
Maybe the Southampton game would be a good opportunity for him to get minutes.“
Newcastle’s Injury Woes Continue with Callum Wilson
Newcastle United boss Eddie Howe confirmed another injury setback for Callum Wilson, ruling the striker out of Saturday’s match against Leicester City. Wilson, who has struggled with injuries all season, is expected to miss two months, per reports.
“Really feel for Callum,” Howe said. “We see the work and professionalism he’s shown.
This season has been tough for him. He’s had setbacks, but I back him to come back stronger.”
Further concerns linger for Newcastle, with Nick Pope (knee) and Joe Willock (training absence) doubtful for the weekend.
Guardiola Confirms Akanji Absence for Manchester Derby
Manchester City will be without defender Manuel Akanji for Sunday’s derby against Manchester United. Pep Guardiola disclosed that a pelvis issue has sidelined the player.
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“It’s discomfort in the area of the pelvis. He made an incredible effort against Bournemouth but wasn’t even at half his best.”
“He cannot be there [on Sunday].”
Jonny Evans Returns for Manchester United
Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim provided a positive update, confirming Jonny Evans is back in training ahead of the Manchester derby.
Following their 2-1 Europa League win against Viktoria Plzen, Amorim noted some player fatigue but no fresh injuries.
“I think everyone is fit and ready to win the game. [Evans is] training already.”
Arteta Eyes Gabriel’s Return for Arsenal
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta hinted at a potential return for Gabriel in their match against Everton on Saturday.
“There is a possibility with one of them to be available. He trained today. It’s Gabriel,”
Arteta said, referencing both Gabriel and Riccardo Calafiori.
On Calafiori, Arteta added,
“We’re just respecting the medical timeline and monitoring him daily.”
Emery sweats on Watkins fitness
Aston Villa manager is not yet sure if striker Ollie Watkins will be fit for the match at Nottingham Forest.
Speaking at his press conference, he explained:
“I don’t know, because we are waiting. Yesterday he was recovering, and today in the afternoon we are going to train and in the case he is training normally, feeling good, he’s going to be available tomorrow.”
