West Ham v Arsenal [Team News] – Arsenal Face Goalkeeping Crisis With Two Key Injuries

Arsene Wenger has given his team news ahead of the clash with West Ham United and it’s not good news as far as Arsenal are concerned. Both Petr Cech and David Ospina will miss the match meaning that third choice Emiliano Martinez will have to play at the Emirates (via Arsenal.com).

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Matchday: Team News – Predicted Lineup – Match Highlights
Match: Arsenal v West Ham United
Stadium: Emirates Stadium
Kick-Off (GMT): Wed 5 April 19:45
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Arsenal’s Premier League matches have taken something of a backseat to the larger stories surrounding the club in recent weeks.

However, the Gunners will still take on West Ham United on Wednesday night needing to win in order to keep up with the chasing pack. Arsene Wenger has given his team news ahead of the clash.

“We lose Koscielny. For how long? I don’t know. It could be a few weeks, or he could be available against Crystal Palace [on Monday April 10],” Wenger confirmed.

“He has a scan today. I can tell you much more tomorrow.”

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Laurent Koscielny was subbed off at half-time during the match against Manchester City at the weekend but he wasn’t the only man to miss out as the Gunners face an injury crisis between the sticks.

“Cech is not available. Maybe Monday,” Wenger said. Just a few hours after the press conference was finished, Arsenal were handed another blow on the fitness front. David Ospina has been ruled out of the match as the Gunners look to third choice Emiliano Martinez.

However, it’s not all bad news for the Gunners as Wenger confirmed.

“Chamberlain and Ramsey have a test today. There is a good chance they are back in the squad.

“Per Mertesacker is available to play. He could be in the squad for tomorrow.”

Per Mertesacker hasn’t played a competitive match for Arsenal since April last season in a 1-0 win over Norwich. The German has struggled with injuries but could soon be called upon after Laurent Koscielny has been ruled out.

It’s good to see Mertesacker back in contention for the Gunners. The German could well be called upon for the Premier League clash after Wenger’s comments. Hopefully, he will be joined by Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain and Aaron Ramsey who face fitness tests ahead of the match.

However, the defensive situation is worrying. Vice-captain and defensive leader, Laurent Koscielny will miss the match and the Gunners have major problems between the sticks. Hopefully, Emiliano Martinez will rise to the test and prove that he is worthy of a place at Arsenal.