Saka and Havertz to miss match; Ødegaard major doubt
Arsenal close in on loan deal for Leverkusen’s Hincapié
Mikel Arteta has backed Eberechi Eze to make an impression on his debut as Arsenal prepare to face Liverpool on Sunday without several key attacking players including Bukayo Saka. Arteta is, however, close to having a new defensive option in Piero Hincapié after loan terms were agreed with Bayer Leverkusen.
The England forward Saka will miss the trip to Anfield after picking up a hamstring injury against Leeds last Saturday, although Arteta was hopeful Saka could be back after the international break. The Arsenal manager also confirmed Kai Havertz had undergone surgery on a knee problem that will keep him out for several weeks. Martin Ødegaard and Leandro Trossard are major doubts for the game against the champions.
Ødegaard was named in Norway’s squad for their World Cup qualifiers but has not trained since sustaining a shoulder injury in the 5-0 win over Leeds.
