Freddie Ljungberg has been offered some mixed team news ahead of Thursday night’s Europa League clash against Standard Liege.
As reported by football.london, Hector Bellerin is unlikely to make it back in time for the game.
They report that he may not be risked in Europe with the game coming up against Manchester City on Sunday in mind. Kieran Tierney is also expected to miss the game after his shoulder injury against West Ham.
However, they go on to add that Emile Smith Rowe could finally make his comeback against the Belgian club.
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Smith Rowe hasn’t featured for the Gunners since their previous Europa League meeting with Vitoria Guimaraes back in October.
His return will come as a timely boost for Ljungberg, who will be looking to rotate his squad in the Europa League.
Smith Rowe offers the Gunners some much-needed depth in wide positions and he could come into the team now on Thursday.
Ljungberg has proven that he is willing to chop and change his teams throughout his brief spell in charge and Smith Rowe could be a player who finally gets his break.
It’s a smart decision to rest Bellerin, should that be the case. He’ll be needed on Sunday against one of the best attackes in Europe.
With Calum Chambers impressing against West Ham on Monday, Ljungberg will be hoping that the Gunners can finally settle down at the back and find a consistent back four when Bellerin does return.
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