"Could come in" - Troy Deeney backs Arsenal star to replace Declan Rice in starting XI vs Tottenham
Pundit Troy Deeney believes Jorginho will do for Arsenal in Declan Rice's absence for their Premier League clash against Tottenham Hotspur. The two arch-rivals are set to face off in the North London Derby at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on Sunday, September 15.
The Gunners have been dealt with a few blows ahead of the big clash. Declan Rice was sent off after receiving two yellow cards in their 1-1 draw against Brighton & Hove Albion last time out. As a result, he's suspended for the derby. New signing Mikel Merino is out of action due to a shoulder injury.
Hence, manager Mikel Arteta will have limited options to choose from for his midfield combination alongside Thomas Partey. Former Watford striker Troy Deeney believes Jorginho could do well in Rice's absence, as he said (via TBR Football):
“For Declan Rice, they have obviously got Jorginho who could come in. Not the same type of player, but will keep the ball and he will do well in the Champions League games.”
Jorginho has yet to make an appearance for Arsenal this season. He featured in the clash against Tottenham at the Emirates last season, where his mistake allowed Spurs to equalize to make it 2-2.
Overall, he's made 52 appearances, registering one goal and three assists, across competitions for the Gunners since arriving from Chelsea in January 2023.
Austrian star apologizes after clash that led to Arsenal captain Martin Odegaard's injury
Declan Rice's suspension and Mikel Merino's injury aren't the only issues for Mikel Arteta to contend with ahead of the North London Derby against Tottenham. Arsenal captain Martin Odegaard suffered an ankle injury during Norway's UEFA Nations League clash against Austria on September 9.
Austrian winger Christoph Baumgartner put in a challenge on Odegaard in the 67th minute. The midfielder appeared to twist his ankle quite badly and had to be replaced. He was even seen in crutches after the match.
Baumgartner put out an Instagram story to apologize to Odegaard for his role in the injury, writing:
"Hi guys! I would like to sincerely apologise to Martin Odegaard. It was never my intention to injure this fantastic player. I wish him all the best and a speedy recovery! Come back stronger @odegaard.98 🙏🏻"
There is no confirmation on the extent of the injury so far and Arsenal will hope it doesn't rule out Odegaard for a long period. He is the main creative outlet for the team and they also loaned out Fabio Vieira back to Porto earlier this summer.