Arteta confirms double injury boost ahead of Arsenal vs Atlético Madrid

Mikel Arteta has confirmed that Kai Havertz and Martin Ødegaard are both available for Arsenal’s Champions League semi-final second leg against Atlético Madrid.

Ødegaard started the first leg but was withdrawn early in the second half and subsequently missed Saturday’s 3-0 win over Fulham.

Havertz, meanwhile, has missed Arsenal’s last two matches after picking up an injury during the 1-0 win over Newcastle United.

Both players are now in contention to return to the starting line-up at the Emirates on Tuesday, as Arsenal look to reach their first Champions League final since 2006.

“They’re available, both of them in the squad,” Arteta confirmed in his pre-match press conference.

“It’s great. We need options, we need the capacity to approach different games tomorrow, whether from the start or during the match.

“It’s really, really good news for us to have them both back.”

Arsenal will, however, remain without Jurrien Timber, whose injury continues to disrupt his end to the season.

Havertz’s return also presents Arteta with a selection dilemma in attack, with Viktor Gyökeres in strong form over the past week.

The Swedish forward scored Arsenal’s goal in the first leg from the penalty spot and followed that up with a brace against Fulham at the weekend.

Bukayo Saka also impressed in the win over Fulham and is expected to start again on Tuesday, having been substituted at half-time on Saturday as part of his gradual return from injury.

On Saka’s fitness, Arteta added:

“Great, that’s what we need at this stage of the competition — players not only available, but in top condition to perform and make a difference. Bukayo will certainly give us that.”