Arsenal star is a big doubt for Crystal Palace clash

Arsenal defender Gabriel Magalhaes is a big doubt for Sunday's Premier League derby against Crystal Palace at the Emirates Stadium.

The Brazil international picked up a knock against Atletico Madrid in the Champions League in midweek, and he was substituted in the second half. Cristhian Mosquera took his place.

The 27-year-old has not yet reported for team training and manager Mikel Arteta has said that he will be assessed in the next 24 hours before a final decision will be made on his availability.

If Gabriel were to be sidelined, Arteta could turn to Mosquera, Piero Hincapie or Riccardo Calafiori for the left centre-back role. Hincapie has yet to make his league debut, but has like-for-like traits.

The Ecuadorian is very strong in the air and could be a perfect fit against Jean-Philippe Mateta. Mosquera is weak in that department. Hence, Hincapie could get the nod alongside William Saliba.

Calafiori can comfortably slot in the left centre-back position too, but Arteta may prefer to continue with him at left-back, where he has been exceptional in the Premier League this campaign.