Arsenal are preparing for another demanding Premier League outing this afternoon as they welcome Sunderland to the Emirates Stadium, but they are once again expected to be without two of their most important attacking players, Bukayo Saka and captain Martin Ødegaard.

Both stars sat out the midweek Carabao Cup semi-final victory over Chelsea, and while there has been encouraging news on their recovery, this fixture appears to have come just a little too early.

Saka suffered a hip issue during the warm-up ahead of last weekend’s league win over Leeds. Although the problem is not believed to be serious, the winger has not yet returned to full match readiness. Mikel Arteta offered an upbeat assessment in his pre-match press conference, explaining that Saka’s condition is improving steadily and expressing hope that he will rejoin the squad in the near future.

Ødegaard is dealing with a minor muscle complaint that also kept him out of recent action. Arteta noted that the Norwegian playmaker is making good progress and suggested his comeback could be only days away. Still, the Arsenal manager stopped short of confirming his availability for the Sunderland clash, meaning supporters may have to wait a little longer to see their captain back in the starting lineup.

Their absence could once again lead to tactical adjustments. Noni Madueke, who seized his chance at Elland Road with a goal and an assist after a late call-up to the starting XI, is in line to continue on the right flank. In midfield, Kai Havertz may be asked to take on a a more central creative role if Ødegaard is not ready.

There is better news in defense, as Jurrien Timber has been declared fit and available despite missing a recent training session, giving Arteta an important boost at the back.