Arsenal boost as Mikel Arteta returns to training after Covid isolation as boss prepares for Nottingham Forest clash

MIKEL ARTETA has given Arsenal a much-needed boost by returning to training after testing positive for coronavirus.

The Gunners boss missed a 1-2 defeat to Manchester City on New Year’s Day forced to isolate at home due to Covid.

4

4

But he will return to the front line when the North Londoners face Nottingham Forest at the City Ground on Sunday in an FA Cup third round tie.

How was it announced last month the third and fourth round replays in the competition have been eliminated to reduce the fixed logjam generated by the fatal bug.

It would be a welcome relief for Arsenal should the game go into extra time with the club missing a host of key players.

Brazilian centre-back Gabriel is suspended for colliding with Championship jerseys.

Former defender Lille get a red card against Citizen after receiving two quick yellow cards just before the hour mark.

Axed captain Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang has flown to Cameroon for the Africa Cup of Nations.

4

FREE BET: GET MORE THAN £2,000 IN NEW CUSTOMERS DEBTS

Through the Captain Gabon had tested positive for the deadly bug when he arrived just days after he was seen partying in Dubai.

His Arsenal teammates Thomas Partey, Nicolas Pepe and Mohamed Elneny will also feature at AFCON.

Arteta is expected to change his squad to face Forest as he keeps in mind next week’s Carabao Cup semi-final first leg against Liverpool.

Second-choice goalkeeper Bernd Leno could come on for Aaron Ramsdale in his second game since October.

Nuno Tavares could replace left-back Kieran Tierney, with Rob Holding to make room for Gabriel.

Elsewhere, Albert Sambi Lokonga could team up with Charlie Patino in the middle of the pitch behind a dramatic guest appearance later. in a 5-1 win over Sunderland last month.

Emile Smith Rowe will most likely be called back to the starting lineup, while Eddie Nketiah could be tasked with leading the squad.

4

⚽ Read ours Move blog News Live for the latest rumors, gossip and deals done