Mikel Arteta explains what one Arsenal star needs to do to be available for North London derby

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Arsenal are facing several potential absences ahead of the North London derby against Tottenham Hotspur, but they have now been handed a positive update.

Mikel Arteta has refused to rule Martin Odegaard out of contention despite his captain picking up an injury during the International break, and it remains to be seen whether he will be available.

The same goes for Riccardo Calafiori, who returned home after encountering a problem whilst playing for Italy, but fellow new signing Mikel Merino is still injured, whilst Declan Rice is suspended.

Gabriel Jesus missed the last two games with another frustrating injury he picked up after the opening day, but after a strong pre-season campaign, the striker could now return in a huge boost for Arsenal against Tottenham.

READ MORE: What is the North London Derby? Everything you need to know about the Arsenal and Tottenham rivalry

Gabriel Jesus could make Arsenal return against Tottenham

Speaking in his pre-match press conference, Arteta revealed that Gabriel Jesus has returned to training, and if he can complete the final sessions heading into the game with no further problems, he will be in contention against Spurs.

“Gabby was out there,” Arteta stated of Jesus.

“He’s got another session tomorrow and if everything goes well he will be ready to be selected in this squad, which is great news for us.”

Gabriel Jesus return a massive boost for Arsenal in North London derby

Given Arsenal’s absences in midfield, Arteta may be tempted to move Kai Havertz to the middle of the park, away from his centre-forward role.

The return of Jesus will allow him to do this, as Jesus can come in as a striker, with Havertz playing behind him, and the Brazilian will bring a lot of flair and creativity to the attack, which would otherwise be missing if Odegaard does not make the game.

Jesus has a lot to prove this season after a difficult year which was disrupted with injuries, but his return comes at the perfect time given Arsenal’s other absences and a difficult fixture list.

The 27-year-old was on the right path as he appeared to get over his injury troubles to find his form in pre-season, but suffered another frustrating problem which kept him out in the last few weeks, and will now hope to build up a run of consistent starts.