LONDON: Mikel Arteta revealed Arsenal’s preparations ahead of their 3-1 win at Brentford were affected by a virus that hit his squad.
Several Arsenal star players fell ill ahead of a crucial Premier League clash early this morning.
Germany striker Kai Havertz was sent home with a virus, while England midfielder Declan Rice was only able to come off the bench in the second half.
Martin Odegaard was reported to be struggling with the virus ahead of kick-off and although he was fit to start the match, the Arsenal captain made a mistake that led to Bryan Mbeumo’s opening goal and was substituted in the second half.
But the Gunners made a stunning comeback at the GTech Community Stadium as they defied the pandemic to return to the title race.
Goals from Gabriel Jesus, Mikel Merino and Gabriel Martinelli ensured Arsenal did not slip up.
“It affects the players on and off the pitch,” Arteta said after his team moved up to second place and closed the gap to six points behind leaders Liverpool, who have played a game less.
“It’s not too serious. But it’s not an ideal situation. In terms of symptoms, with Kai it’s very clear. He doesn’t feel well at all. He has very clear symptoms so stay away from him, put him in the car and go back to London.
“These things happen. During this period, there are always things that haunt you, infections, viruses, so I try to postpone the starting lineup as late as possible because you wake up in the morning and unfortunately receive surprises like this.”
Arteta hopes the virus will have subsided for his side’s visit to Brighton on Saturday.