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Arsenal Injury News: Latest on Kieran Gibbs Injury
By Josh Sippie
It’s not very often that Arsenal get some good news on the injury front. Although between Olivier Giroud being ahead of schedule and Aaron Ramsey returning much sooner than anticipated, the tables may have turned.
The lastest bit of good news comes at the position where Arsenal are least fit – defense (and no, Laurent Kocielny is not due back).
Kieran Gibbs sustained a hip injury against Sunderland and after trying to play through it, he was physically unable and had to be replaced in the 73rd minute. All signs and all history pointed to an extended absence, but reports are pouring in that Gibbs should be set to play against Burnley.
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This news is a breath of fresh air. Gibbs has been regaining his world-class form as of late, including scoring a crucial, composed goal against Anderlecht that leveled the score and put momentum in Arsenal’s favor.
Kieran Gibbs is an absolute asset at left back, not just defensively (as he is superior to Nacho Monreal) but also on the offensive front, making runs down the left hand side (also superior to Nacho Monreal).
Being a former striker, it’s invaluable to have him flying in from left back, fully capable of handling the ball and handling defenders as an offensive player would. Yet at the same time, his defense doesn’t suffer, as he tracks back well to cover the back line.
Injuries have plagued Gibbs’ career thus far, so this is fantastic news. Hopefully he can stay healthy for an extended period of time and rise to the potential that’s been fluttering about him.
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