Mikel Arteta confirms defender will not return for Arsenal vs Everton

Mikel Arteta provided the latest injury updates in his pre-match press conference on Friday as his Arsenal team prepare to face Everton in the Premier League on Saturday afternoon.

The Gunners play at the same time as league leaders Liverpool this weekend, with the Reds facing Fulham at Anfield. We can only hope the Cottagers, who ran Liverpool close on Merseyside last season, do us a favour after playing out a 1-1 draw in west London last Sunday.

The deficit behind Liverpool is six points having also played a game more. Everton were scheduled to host Arne Slot's men at Goodison Park on Matchday 15, but disruption caused by Storm Darragh meant the derby was postponed.

Thus, the Toffees head into Saturday's bout with a newfound sense of freshness and vibrancy. They battered Wolves 4-0 on their most recent Premier League outing and are aiming to steer clear of the drop zone.

Riccardo Calafiori is not ready to return from injury for Arsenal vs Everton

Arsenal have dominated this match-up since the Premier League's inauguration, especially at home. Moreover, the hosts are set to be boosted by the return of centre-back Gabriel to Arteta's starting XI.

The boss has confirmed the Brazilian's availability for Everton's visit following positive reports in the week.

Given the Toffees' proficiency from set-pieces, Gabriel's return is a major plus. However, that was the sole piece of positive injury news provided by Arteta on Friday.

The Spaniard also said that Riccardo Calafiori, who, like Gabriel, hasn't played since the 5-2 win at West Ham, isn't ready for Saturday's game. The Italian was out for a month before the November international break due to a knee injury but he's missed Arsenal's three most recent games because of a groin issue.

""We are just respecting the times that the medical department has set. We understand that he is not fully ready yet.""

- Arteta on Calafiori.

Oleksandr Zinchenko also won't be back this weekend, while Ben White and Takehiro Tomiyasu are longer-term absentees.

In Calafiori's absence, Arteta will likely opt for Jurrien Timber at left-back with Thomas Partey filling in on the opposite side. However, the performance of teenager Myles Lewis-Skelly against Monaco on Wednesday night should convince the boss that he's ready for a maiden Premier League start. Arsenal's possession dynamics are aided by having a left-footer at left-back.

Let's just wait and see. With games continuing to arrive thick and fast over the festive period, Arteta may throw in a couple of team selection surprises.

READ THE LATEST ARSENAL NEWS HERE!