Mikel Arteta confirms major defensive injury boost

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has confirmed that Takehiro Tomiyasu will be available to face Brighton & Hove Albion tomorrow.

The Japan international has been nursing a minor hamstring injury and he was not part of the matchday squad to face West Ham United.

However, he has since returned to training and Arteta has confirmed that he will be in contention for the South Coast trip on Saturday.

He told Arsenal.com: "[Tomiyasu] is getting closer and closer. He’s been training with us, so he’s available."

Emile Smith Rowe, on the other hand, may take more time to make his comeback following his groin surgery.

The Gunners graduate suffered a minor setback along the way but Arteta has said that things are looking good for him.

He added: "[Emile] has made some big steps in the last week or so. He’s taken part in a few training sessions lately and he’s looking good. We’re looking forward to having him back soon."

Arsenal will be aiming to preserve their five-point lead at the top of the Premier League when they face the Seagulls.

Their record against Brighton has been far from impressive. They are winless in the last three meetings with them.