Mikel Arteta hints at Raheem Sterling injury boost and what made the Arsenal star ‘gutted’

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Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta has hinted at a possible return for Raheem Sterling ahead of the clash with Brentford on New Year’s Day.

The winger joined from Chelsea on a season-long loan back in the summer transfer window but has thus far struggled to land much game time.

Sterling has been limited largely to cup starts and cameo appearances from the bench since joining Arsenal, with little impact so far.

There was some hope that, with Bukayo Saka’s injury, the experienced forward would be able to step in and feature.

However, Sterling picked up a knee injury of his own, stopping him from featuring after a bright performance in the EFL Cup quarter-final.

It came as a huge blow to the star, though he may still be able to make the impact he was hoping to make when joining in the summer.

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Mikel Arteta gives Raheem Sterling verdict before Brentford vs Arsenal

With Arsenal preparing for their trip to Brentford, there may be some renewed hope that Sterling could return to action.

Earlier in the month, Arteta claimed there was “good news” surrounding Sterling’s injury, with a potential return to action around the corner.

When asked about the forward, and his drive to be in the team, the manager told the press: “He was gutted because he had a good game against Palace, he could’ve scored two goals, he made an assist and in the end he got injured after one of the training sessions.

“That was his opportunity because naturally, he would have played in that position but, knowing Raheem, I think he will be back quite soon.”

If he is back relatively soon, then Arsenal may have their natural option to feature on the right flank over the coming weeks.

That may, in itself, solve a few problems for Mikel Arteta while he looks to replace the output of Bukayo Saka within his team.

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Raheem Sterling could solve Arsenal’s transfer problem

Heading into January, there is some suggestion that Arsenal could look to replace Saka by looking into the transfer market.

If the Gunners are willing to land a deal, then it may come at a price with the difficulty of doing business mid-season.

Meanwhile, in Sterling, they have a ready-made and available replacement on the right flank when he does return from injury.

If Arteta can get the best out of the winger, then there may be no need to splash the cash in the weeks ahead.