According to Daily Mirror journalist John Cross, Arsenal host Shakhtar Donetsk in the third Champions League game of the 2024/25 season and could be without several key players as Bukayo Saka, Jurrien Timber, Martin Odegaard and Takehiro Tomiyasu were not present at training on Monday afternoon.

Manager Mikel Arteta claimed in his press conference today that both Saka and Timber will be assessed during training this afternoon, but both were not involved and it looks like they will miss action tomorrow.

Arsenal have secured a draw and a win in their first two games of the group stage of Europe’s elite competition and will be aiming to take all three points against the Ukrainians on Tuesday.

Being without Saka will be a huge blow, but the Gunners should be able to cope without him as they have Raheem Sterling as an option to play in that position.

William Saliba will also be available for selection despite being sent off in Saturday’s Premier League game against Bournemouth.

However, the France international will not be available for Arsenal against Liverpool on Sunday unless the club appeals his red card.

Shakhtar were held to a 0-0 draw by Bologna in their opening game of the competition before losing 3-0 at home to Atalanta in their last game and the Gunners will have a good chance of winning against them even without some of their key players.

Arteta will be hoping both Saka and Timber are available for selection against Liverpool as the encounter with the Premier League leaders could prove to be their toughest game of the season so far.