Arsenal supervisor Mikel Arteta has admitted that the absence of Jurrien Timber and Thomas Partey has been a ‘large blow’ for the Gunners.
Arteta spoke at his pre-match press convention forward of Arsenal’s FA Cup third-round conflict with Liverpool on Sunday at Emirates Stadium.
Each Timber and Partey are at the moment recovering from accidents.
He mentioned: “[We saw] somewhat a part of it. He [Timber] was solely out there for pre-season and the primary sport of the season.
“It was an enormous blow. Everybody may see from day one what he was going to convey to the group. The flexibility, the standard, the management. And a capability that we didn’t have within the backline.
“It was an enormous blow as nicely dropping Thomas [Partey]. We had different plans as nicely with him—to grow to be very versatile and unpredictable in our manner of taking part in.”
Arsenal, in the meantime, are at the moment fourth within the Premier League desk, 5 factors behind leaders Liverpool.