in today’s news roundup, we have injury updates from the Arsenal squad ahead of the crucial clash against Liverpool. Several of our first team players have returned to full training, however it is unlikely that we will see any major changes from the winning formula that we have been playing for the past two months.
In other news, manager Arsene Wenger has spoken about the transfer rumours circulating the club, particularly in regard to Palermo striker Paulo Dybala. Also, Cazorla speaks about the FA Cup and Arsenal’s chances of success. All this and more in today’s roundup.
Injury Update: Five players return to training
Arsene Wenger has confirmed Mikel Arteta, Jack Wilshere, Mathieu Debuchy, Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain and Abou Diaby have returned to Arsenal first team training, following lengthy spells on the sidelines. Jack Wilshere and Debuchy in particular have been plagued by injuries throughout the season, and captain Mikel Arteta has not featured in a long time.
Although this weekend’s game with Liverpool comes too soon for all five players, there was more positive news regarding Danny Welbeck, who could yet return to the side in time for the game.
More team news: "@Alex_OxChambo is back in training as well but won't be available. Welbeck could return." #LFCvAFC pic.twitter.com/e6DrnfaVaQ
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— Arsenal FC (@Arsenal) April 2, 2015
The news means Arsenal almost have a full compliment of players heading into the most decisive part of the season as we look over the coming weeks to secure both our top four position and a second successive FA Cup final by beating Reading.
Mathieu Debuchy happy to return to full fitness
The Frenchman, who was a summer transfer from Newcastle, has had a torrid season on the injury front. He damaged his ankle during a clash with Manchester City early on in the season, which kept him out for months. He then suffered a dislocated shoulder during our win over Stoke City at the Emirates, and has been watching from the sidelines ever since.
The 29-year-old should return to action before the end of the season however, and is clearly delighted at the thought of experiencing first team football once again, and he took to Twitter to thank the fans for their support. Luckily, with the emergence of Hector Bellerin as a reliable player we haven’t missed Debuchy too much this season; but it is always good news when a player becomes available.
Arsene Wenger speaks on Dybala and Sterling transfer rumours
There has been major speculation over the international break about Arsenal planning to make summer moves for Palermo striker Paulo Dybala and Liverpool winger Raheem Sterling. Palermo management even went on record to say that Arsenal had approached the club to inquire about the player.
However, during yesterdays’s press conference the manager denied all interest in the striker, as reported on Twitter:
Wenger on Zamparinj claiming Dybala interest: "Ask him to show you the offer… [no interest] not at all."
— Miguel Delaney (@MiguelDelaney) April 2, 2015
Despite his insistence Arsenal have no interest in Dybala, the Evening Standard claims that Wenger has been sending scouts to watch the forward – who has scored 12 goals in 27 games this season – for several weeks.
Although, the report goes on to say those watching Dybala remain unconvinced he warrants the likely €40 million bid needed to release him from Palermo’s clutches, even if he is described as ‘the new Sergio Aguero’.
On the matter of Sterling however, the manager was more reluctant to reveal his cards, choosing to just praise the player:
Sterling is a top player.
I don’t want to get involved in that just 48 hours before game.
There may be some interest here after all.
Santi Cazorla speaks regarding FA Cup and success
Our midfield maestro Santi Cazorla believes that we can still be successful this season, provided we lift the FA Cup, according to The Express.
The Spaniard has bemoaned our performance at the Emirates, but claims we are still in an excellent position. He is hopeful of competing for silverware this season, and the FA Cup is clearly our best chance.
At home we made serious mistakes, and we went into the Champions League with the feeling that, playing Monaco over two legs, we would have progressed.
But hey, apart from that setback, the team is in a good shape and we still have the FA Cup semi-final, which allows us to compete for a trophy.
Other interesting stories on allarsenal.com
Abou Diaby could still be offered new Arsenal deal
On this day in history [2 April]: Joe Hulme makes international debut, Jimmy Rimmer joins Arsenal
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