James Milner will miss the upcoming fourth-round tie due to “a small muscle issue,” while teammates Kaoru Mitoma and Brajan Gruda are reportedly progressing towards a return, though they will not be available for Wednesday’s match. The team is optimistic as they approach a fuller squad with Joel Veltman also nearing his comeback.
In preparation for the challenge ahead against Arsenal, a team noted for its effectiveness in both defense and capitalizing on set pieces, the manager acknowledged the significant threat posed by the Gunners. He emphasized that Arsenal’s strengths extend beyond their key players, as they demonstrate strong teamwork and set-piece strategies that have proven effective throughout the season.
The manager expressed confidence in his side’s defensive abilities, stating, “We are quite good in defending and we are quite confident that we are capable of defending against them.” Highlighting the growing importance of set pieces in the Premier League, he remarked on their efforts to foster a robust set-piece culture within the team, acknowledging that such development takes time.
Overall, while the team faces some injury setbacks, there is a sense of optimism regarding their defensive capabilities and the potential for a fully fit squad in the near future. This outlook provides a hopeful perspective as they prepare for significant matches amid the demanding Premier League schedule.