Arsenal team news: Wenger sufferers major blow as he rules three first-team stars

Arsenal transfer news: Martin Keown
Arsenal's French manager Arsene Wenger (L) and Arsenal legend Martin Keown (R) on the touchline during the Charity football match between Arsenal Legends and Milan Glorie at The Emirates stadium in London on September 3, 2016. / AFP / Glyn KIRK (Photo credit should read GLYN KIRK/AFP/Getty Images)

Arsenal face AC Milan in a crucial showdown this evening in the Europa League.

The Gunners will need to win the Europa League if they are to play UEFA Champions League football next season.

However, Arsene Wenger’s side come into tonight’s encounter following three defeats in a row.

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Arsenal Team News

Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger has decided to leave Hector Bellerin, Alexandre Lacazette and Nacho Monreal in London. The trio are all sidelined with injuries.

“‘He’s injured. He has an inflammation of his left knee,” Wenger told reporters at the pre-game press conference.

“He had a scan yesterday which showed inflammation.

“He tried but couldn’t absorb the training session so we left him at home. It doesn’t look a long-term problem.

“Lacazette is not ready. ‘We had to leave Monreal behind as well because he’s not ready.

“He started a little session today but he’s not ready.”

 

Meanwhile, £60m January signing Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang is also unavailable due to being cup-tied, which means England international Danny Welbeck is likely to lead Arsenal’s attacking line.

Star playmaker Mesut Ozil has made the trip to Italy and is available for selection tonight.

The 29-year-old as provided seven assists and scored five goals in 27 appearances for Arsenal this season.