Arsenal star a doubt for Premier League opener vs Newcastle

August 5, 2019 By Ali M.

Topics: Alexandre Lacazette, Arsenal, Newcastle, English Premier League

Emery is optimistic but the Gunners could be without one key player for the trip to Newcastle.

Arsenal are gearing up for the Premier League kick-off. The new season in the English top-flight commences this Friday, but the Gunners will not begin their campaign until two days later on Sunday.

Nonetheless, the north London giants are still sweating over the fitness of one key attacker despite the two-day advantage. That man is none other than Alexandre Lacazzete.

The French forward picked up an ankle injury in the Emirates Cup showdown with Lyon. The 28-year-old was thus withdrawn from the game as a precaution but could now miss the weekend trip to St. James’ Park.

Emery made this admission to the press after the 2-1 loss to Barcelona, which Lacazzete missed. While the Spanish tactician insisted that he and the medical staff are optimistic of the Frenchman playing, there remains a likelihood of him being ruled out.

"Hopefully he could be available for the match against Newcastle," Unai said, as per the Sun.

"The doctors, they are optimistic. We are going to wait.

"The next days are going to be very important to see how he is going to progress with his injury.

"But I am really, really happy with other players also. If he is ready for Sunday, perfect. If he isn't, then for the next.

"We need now to have a very competitive team, with the players ready for the next matches.

"But above all [we must] create a mentality to start strong and find our best performance in the next match."

It would be a huge worry for Arsenal if their key attacker was to miss the opening game. Given that the Gunners have struggled often in recent years in Matchday 1 makes this a more alarming issue.

Lacazette was an influential figure in the London giants’ 2018/19 campaign. The former Lyon ace scored 19 goals and assisted 11 in all competitions last term and was named the club’s Player of the Season. Fans will have their fingers crossed over his fitness.