‘He’s ready to play’: Mikel Arteta says Arsenal star could return to starting XI vs West Ham | OneFootball

Arsenal will be eyeing a fourth-straight Premier League win when they host West Ham United at the Emirates Stadium on Saturday afternoon.

The Gunners are currently eight points behind leaders Liverpool, but they have a game in hand.

The London giants have the chance to reduce the gap to five points with a win before Liverpool’s tricky challenge at Manchester City on Sunday.

Manager Mikel Arteta has confirmed that right-back Ben White is available.

Arteta said (live via Arsenal.com): “He’s ready to play – whether it’s to start it’s a decision we will make tomorrow.”

White has not featured for the Gunners since early November, when he underwent knee surgery to rectify a nagging concern.

He was back in the matchday squad for the visit of Leicester City, but Arteta did not bring him off the bench as the Gunners chased for the victory.

The England international could make his long-awaited return tomorrow. He may get the nod in the starting XI ahead of Jurrien Timber.

Timber has had a heavy workload over the past few months. He has responded tremendously well since his return from a serious knee injury last season.

However, the Dutchman’s minutes need to be managed. He could be given a breather against the Hammers with White reclaiming the right-back role.

Arsenal are the outsiders in the title race due to Liverpool’s fine form, but a derby win can pile the pressure on the Reds before their trip to Manchester.

Stats from Transfermarkt.com