Arsenal could be without eight players for Chelsea clash

Arsenal could be without eight first-team players when they entertain Chelsea in the Premier League on Sunday.

The Gunners suffered a surprise 2-0 defeat to Brentford on the opening matchday with several players absent.

Thomas Partey, Gabriel Magalhaes and Eddie Nketiah were injured, and the trio remain unavailable to face the Blues this weekend.

It is now revealed that Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, Alexandre Lacazette, Alex Runarsson and Willian were absent last week due to COVID-19.

Out of the quartet, Lacazette and Runarsson have not recovered. Aubameyang and Willian may undergo late fitness tests ahead of the derby.

Elsewhere, new signing Martin Odegaard is also unavailable for the clash as he has not received a work permit to be registered to play.

The Gunners go into the derby as genuine underdogs with several key players missing. The Blues should fancy a solid victory on the road.

Romelu Lukaku is expected to make his second debut for the Blues. He is coming off a 30 goal season with Italian champions Inter Milan.