By Karim Hammam
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has confirmed that Declan Rice, Riccardo Calafiori, and Noni Madueke are injury doubts for Sunday's Premier League match at Liverpool after all three missed Tuesday's shock Carabao Cup exit to Fleetwood Town.
Arteta Explains Absences
Arteta said after the penalty shootout loss that Calafiori was unavailable, Madueke had an ankle issue, and Rice finished the previous game against Everton with a problem. The trio's absence forced heavy rotation that backfired as the Gunners were held 1-1 after 90 minutes before losing on penalties.
Mounting Injury Concerns
The setbacks compound Arsenal's growing injury list, with winger Bukayo Saka potentially sidelined until Christmas due to a thigh injury sustained against Bayern Munich. Summer signing Christos Tzolis is also on the treatment table, while teenager Max Dowman will miss the next three matches after receiving a red card for kicking out at a Fleetwood player.
Selection Headache for Liverpool Trip
Arteta acknowledged the team's disappointment after the cup upset, stating they lacked the quality to create a larger margin of victory. The manager now faces a significant selection dilemma for the Anfield clash as Arsenal attempt to bounce back from the humiliation.
