Arsenal handed massive injury boost for Olympiacos Europa League clash

Arsenal are preparing for the the most important game of their season and the biggest test of Mikel Arteta’s managerial career as they travel to Athens to face Olympiacos in the Europa League last-16.

A 4-3 aggregate success over Benfica dramatically secured the Gunners’ spot in this round, where they were rewarded with their annual meeting with the Greek heavyweights.

With some of the sides left in the competition, there were better draws Arsenal could have had. There were also far worse draws. So on the balance it’s not a tie to moan about, although the latest injury updated mean it could be a tie to savour.

Arsenal will need to be decidedly more clinical than they were against Burnley – et al – in the Premier League, even if they still managed to carve open numerous chances. Against a side who’ve conceded only 12 goals in 25 Greek Super League matches this season, that may prove tough.

Arsenal handed massive injury boost for huge Olympiacos Europa League last-16 clash

Them potentially coming into Thursday’s massive clash without a fully fit centre-back may help.

Pedro Martins’ side were already without Ruben Semedo – an ever-present in the heart of defence this campaign – for the both legs of the last-16 clash after suffering a knee injury at the beginning of March.

His usual partner, Ousseynou Ba, has now also fallen foul to injury, forced to come off in the 18th minute of his side’s 3-0 win over Lamia, prompting midfielder Thiago Silva to play in an unusual centre-back role. The loss of the pair adds to Avraam Papadopoulos’ absence, with the Greek international not playing a league game since December and remaining sidelined for Thursday.

As if it couldn’t get worse, Sokratis Papastathopoulos is the only fit recognised central defender left and even he was seen clutching his shoulder at the end of their most recent outing. He is thought to be OK for the tie but Martins has a decision on his hands for who should partner the former Gunner.

Despite his experience, Sokratis has barely featured this season and only completed 90 minutes twice since moving to Olympiacos, while the Arsenal forwards will be keenly aware of any weaknesses he possesses.

Arteta’s side have to look at their own performance but facing a side with just one fit centre-back is an opportunity to grab vital away goals. It’s a huge boost.