Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has confirmed that key duo Jurrien Timber and Kai Havertz will miss Saturday's Premier League showdown against Fulham at the Emirates Stadium.

The Gunners are looking to bounce back from their midweek Champions League stalemate with Atletico Madrid, but they'll have to do so without two important players. Timber has been sidelined since last month after suffering an ankle injury, while Havertz was forced off during the weekend's clash with Newcastle United and subsequently missed the European tie.

"Neither will be available for the Fulham match," Arteta stated in his pre-match press conference. The London derby carries extra weight as Arsenal aim to keep pace in the title race, but the injury list is starting to test the squad's depth.

However, there was a glimmer of positive news regarding captain Martin Odegaard. The Norwegian playmaker was substituted against Atletico Madrid with a knee concern, but Arteta offered a cautious "let's see" when asked about his availability for the weekend. Odegaard's creativity in midfield has been vital this season, and his potential return would be a major boost for the north London side.

For fans heading to the stadium or watching from home, this match is shaping up to be a true test of Arsenal's resilience. With Timber's defensive solidity and Havertz's attacking threat both missing, Arteta will need to dig deep into his tactical playbook to secure three points against a stubborn Fulham side.