Huge: Arsenal Handed Massive Injury Boost Before Clash Against Bournemouth
Nov 27, 2016 at 3:46 PM
Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger has welcomed veteran defender Per Mertesacker’s return to training after a lengthy injury lay-off.
The 32-year old suffered a cruciate knee ligament injury against Lens during pre-season and has been sidelined ever since. He returned to his native Germany for an operation and has now returned to the training.
With the season entering a serious phase, the experienced Germany international’s arrival is undoubtedly a huge boost for the Gunners. Shkodran Mustafi and Laurent Koscielny have done a decent job so far but they were brutally exploited by Paris Saint-Germain in the 2-2 draw last week. And maybe Wenger would be desperate to have an experienced campaigner in those crunch games.
Wenger admitted that while the veteran centre-back will take some time before returning to action, his presence will play a vital role in keeping the other players motivated.
Wenger said:“We’ve had a welcome addition to the squad recently – Per Mertesacker has returned from a treatment break in Germany.”
“You know Per is a leader in the group, on a mental front as well. That’s the only attribute he can use at the moment but he’s an important part of the dressing room.
“He gets everybody focused and I’m sure I can rely on his help to keep the team highly motivated.”
Meanwhile, the Gunners will be desperate to bring their season back on track with a win against Bournemouth on Sunday. Arsene Wenger’s drew their last league game against Manchester United and will look to pocket all the three points to keep the pace with the leaders.Chelsea, Liverpool and Manchester City have won their games on Saturday and another slip up might dent Arsenal’s title chances.