ARSENAL have been given an almighty boost after Gabriel Martinelli’s scan revealed no major damage.
The Brazilian forward, 19, went down in the warm-up of the Gunners’ FA Cup win over Newcastle.
Gabriel Martinelli’s scan showed no major damage, while Rob Holding signed a new deal in a day of good news for ArsenalCredit: Getty Images – Getty
Martinelli had only just returned from a long injury lay-off – having been out with a knee injury since June – playing just four times since his December 19 return.
Mikel Arteta revealed he found the youngster in tears and a ‘lot of pain’ after his latest setback.
But Arsenal have been given a boost with Martinelli’s scan revealing no major damage.
Thursday night’s game against Crystal Palace will come too soon for the forward.
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However, Martinelli is now in line to face Newcastle, this time in the Premier League, on Monday.
Arsenal revealed he would return to training ‘in the next few days’ and could now play in next week’s clash at the Emirates.
On their website, the club revealed: “Gabi has progressed very well.
“We’re hoping that he will return to full training with the squad in the next few days.”
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Meanwhile, Rob Holding has seen his strong form rewarded after signing a new long-term contract.
The defender, 25, appeared to be heading out the Emirates exit door last summer with Newcastle linked with the star.
Now he has agreed to stay until 2024, with an option for a further year, after convincing boss Mikel Arteta of his abilities.
Holding even captained the side against Everton recently.
On Holding’s deal, Arteta said: “Since I started as manager, I have been hugely impressed with Rob’s contribution to the club and the dressing room, on and off the pitch.
“The quality of his work every day on the training pitches is excellent and he is translating this into consistently high performances in matches.
“We all know Rob’s quality, which he has shown in his displays during the intense moments of those two FA Cup final victories.
“We are all very happy that Rob has signed a new contract.
“He is very popular with all the players and staff, and we’re looking forward to watching him continue to grow with us in the coming years.”
Mikel Arteta says Emile Smith Rowe is becoming more and more important in the team after Arsenal’s eventual win against Newcastle
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
