Mikel Arteta offers worrying David Raya injury update
Mikel Arteta offers worrying David Raya injury update. Arsenal’s head coach Mikel Arteta has revealed that goalkeeper David Raya remains an injury doubt for their Saturday clash against Leicester City.
Raya was seen limping following Arsenal’s 2-2 draw with Manchester City, which after Arteta suggested one of his players may have suffered a “serious” injury, left fans sweating over his fitness.
Raya missed Wednesday’s Carabao Cup clash against Bolton Wanderers, and head coach Arteta revealed the Spain international’s return date, is still unknown.
“We don’t know yet, he’s got a muscular injury,” said Arteta.
Raya’s absence contributed to a real headache for Arteta heading into the Bolton game. Usual backup goalkeeper Neto was cup-tied after representing Bournemouth in the competition earlier in the season, while third-choice Tommy Setford was missing with a hip injury.
Arteta ultimately turned to 16-year-old Jack Porter, who became the second-youngest player in Arsenal history and the youngest to ever start a game in the process.
“We told him yesterday and he was over the moon straight away,” Arteta said of his conversation with Porter.
“I think he spoke to his family and they weren’t prepared for that. It’s a big step, it’s a big occasion for them and I think they were nervous about it.
“But I think he reacted really well, he was really composed yesterday in training and today as well. His teammates really helped him as well on that. What an experience and what a way to break a record.”
Arsenal are set to return to action on Saturday when they host newly-promoted Leicester in the Premier League.
