As the Premier League gears up for a return following the international break, many clubs are facing injury concerns that could affect their performances in the upcoming fixtures. From Arsenal’s midfield worries to Liverpool’s injury setback, here’s a comprehensive injury update for several Premier League clubs.
Arsenal’s Injury Woes: Odegaard and Rice Among Key Absentees
Arsenal’s preparations for their return to Premier League action have been hit hard by injuries and suspensions. Midfield maestro Martin Odegaard is a major doubt for their weekend clash after suffering an ankle injury while playing for Norway. The Arsenal captain has been pivotal to their success this season, and his absence could leave a significant void in the team’s creativity.
Adding to their troubles, Declan Rice will miss the weekend’s game due to suspension after his controversial red card against Brighton before the break. Rice has been a powerhouse in Arsenal’s midfield, and his absence, combined with Odegaard’s potential injury, will force manager Mikel Arteta to make difficult tactical decisions.
Bad news, Arsenal fans.
Martin Odegaard is looking at three weeks on the injury list. pic.twitter.com/4usQxImiWL
— BBC Sport (@BBCSport) September 11, 2024
Another player Arsenal will be without is Riccardo Calafiori, who is recovering from a calf injury sustained while on international duty with Italy. These injury concerns, coupled with Rice’s suspension, leave Arsenal with a midfield crisis ahead of a crucial Premier League weekend.
Aston Villa’s Long-Term Injury List Continues to Grow
Aston Villa is another club dealing with a string of injuries. Boubacar Kamara and Tyrone Mings are both out due to long-term knee injuries, and while their return isn’t expected for a few more weeks, the impact of their absence has been felt across Villa’s defense and midfield.
Right-back Matty Cash, who picked up a thigh injury in Villa’s match against Arsenal, is still recovering and is likely to be unavailable for their upcoming fixture. His absence will force manager Unai Emery to consider alternate options at right-back.
Additionally, Diego Carlos remains sidelined with a hamstring injury, further depleting Villa’s defensive depth. With Kamara, Mings, and Cash out of the lineup, Villa’s squad depth will be tested in the coming weeks.
Liverpool’s Harvey Elliott Suffers a Foot Fracture
Liverpool faces a significant blow with the news that Harvey Elliott has fractured his foot while on international duty with England’s U21 team. The young midfielder has been a key player for Liverpool this season, and his absence will be felt in their attacking play.
However, there is some good news for Liverpool fans, as Alexis Mac Allister is set to return after featuring for Argentina in their World Cup qualifiers. Mac Allister played a crucial role in Argentina’s 2-1 win over Colombia, and his return will be a welcome boost for Jurgen Klopp‘s midfield options.
Despite Elliott’s injury, Liverpool will be encouraged by the potential return of other key players, allowing Klopp to rotate his squad more effectively during the busy period.
Manchester United’s Bruno Fernandes Ready to Return
After a minor injury scare during international duty with Portugal, Bruno Fernandes is expected to be fit for Manchester United‘s upcoming Premier League match. The midfielder suffered a slight knock but quickly shrugged off concerns, confirming that it was nothing more than a “little bump.”
Fernandes has been in fine form this season, and his availability will be crucial as United look to bounce back after a mixed start to the season. His leadership and creativity on the field will play a vital role in ensuring United remain competitive in their pursuit of a top-four finish.
Meanwhile, United is still without Rasmus Hojlund and Victor Lindelof, who are both nursing injuries. Lindelof, who suffered an ankle injury, is expected to return soon, while Luke Shaw and Mason Mount are also working their way back to full fitness.
Newcastle’s Callum Wilson Nearing a Return
Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe will be pleased to hear that striker Callum Wilson is close to making his return from a back injury. Wilson has been a key player for Newcastle, and his goal-scoring ability will be critical as the Magpies aim to maintain their top-half position in the league.
In Wilson’s absence, Alexander Isak has stepped up to provide the necessary firepower, but having Wilson back will give Newcastle more attacking options. Additionally, Fabian Schar is available again after serving a suspension, strengthening their defensive lineup.
However, Newcastle is still without Sven Botman and Jamaal Lascelles, both of whom are out with long-term injuries. The duo’s absence has forced Howe to shuffle his defensive setup, but Schar’s return will provide some much-needed stability.
Other Notable Premier League Injuries
Tottenham Hotspur has been hit by the loss of forward Richarlison, who has been ruled out for “a few weeks” with an unspecified injury. However, Spurs fans will be relieved to know that defender Micky van de Ven is fit and should feature in their next game. Dominic Solanke is also available for selection after recovering from an ankle injury.
At Manchester City, Nathan Ake is being assessed after suffering a muscle injury during the Netherlands’ game against Germany. Meanwhile, Phil Foden, who missed England duty due to illness, is expected to return to action this weekend.
For Bournemouth, forward Enes Unal is nearing a return from an ankle injury, while Tyler Adams remains doubtful with a back issue.
Conclusion: A Testing Time for Premier League Clubs
As the Premier League returns, many clubs will have to navigate key fixtures without some of their star players. Injuries picked up during the international break, combined with long-term fitness concerns, have left several teams with selection headaches. Arsenal, Aston Villa, Liverpool, and Newcastle are among the hardest hit, and their ability to cope with these setbacks could shape their fortunes in the weeks to come.
For fantasy football managers and fans alike, keeping an eye on these injury updates will be crucial as the Premier League season heats up.
