Arteta confirms that two Arsenal stars were ruled out of the West Ham game

Mikel Arteta has confirmed that he will not be able to count on his players for Sunday’s Premier League derby against West Ham United, arsenalnews.co.uk reports.

The Gunners currently have 76 points after 35 games, five ahead of second-placed Manchester City, who have a game in hand against Crystal Palace.

Man City play first this weekend against Brentford tomorrow, and the Gunners will hope the Bees can take something from the game at the Etihad Stadium.

Meanwhile, Arsenal have a tough London derby against West Ham at the London Stadium. The club is guaranteed to be without a couple of first-team stars for the match.

Mikel Merino has been out since last winter due to a foot injury. He has returned to light individual training but Arteta hinted that the Spaniard will not be fit this weekend.

The manager added that Jurrien Timber faces a similar situation. The Dutch international has been recovering from a groin injury he suffered against Everton at home last month.

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Arteta said of the duo: “There are no chances for the weekend. There is still a lot to do.” [in their recoveries]. Everything has to be very fluid and fast if they want to have the opportunity to play for a minute. [this season].”

Arsenal gained a huge lead in the title race after Manchester City’s thrilling 3-3 draw at Everton on Monday. The Cityzens came back from 3-1 down to secure a dramatic draw.

The Gunners have the fate of the title in their own hands and three wins would secure them the title. West Ham have been a ghost club in recent years, but Arsenal have a good record against them on the road.

They have won 5-2 and 6-0 in their last two league visits to the London Stadium. The derby could be close this time, considering West Ham are fighting for survival in the top flight.

The east London side are unbeaten in their last six home games (three wins and three draws), and Arsenal must put in a strong performance to beat the Hammers on Sunday.

With a four-day break after the second leg of the Champions League semi-final, Arteta could be tempted to name an unchanged starting XI for the third consecutive game in all competitions.