£10m Arsenal star is playing for his future against Preston, Mikel Arteta has completely forgotten him

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Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has certainly had to lean on his extended squad this season amid all of the club’s injuries and suspensions.

Arteta deployed a weakened Arsenal side against Tottenham Hotspur earlier this season, who were able to win on the occasion.

However, against Liverpool at the Emirates Stadium, Arsenal ultimately came up short with William Saliba, Martin Odegaard and a host of other players missing.

Gabriel Magalhaes has now replaced Saliba on the unavailability list, another worry for the Gunners.

Gabriel injured his left knee, and Arsenal supporters will be eagerly awaiting his return.

Jorginho needs to impress against Preston in the EFL Cup

However, with all of those missing at Arsenal this season, Jorginho has still only played 275 minutes.

Thomas Partey’s improved fitness has played a key role in that sense, as has the new arrival of Mikel Merino who offers another option.

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Jorginho has been hailed a secret weapon for Arsenal, however, in that sense, he’s not called to action too often.

Although, the Italian did play 90 minutes against Bolton Wanderers in the last round of the EFL Cup, a 5-1 win.

And Arsenal supporters will expect to see Jorginho at the heart of their midfield once again against Preston North End on Wednesday evening.

With both out of contract this summer, Arsenal are leaning towards handing Partey a new contract, seemingly preferring to keep the Ghanaian over Jorginho.

And if he does want to stay in north London, perhaps the Italian will need to excel in every chance that comes his way, including a potential banana skin tie away to Preston.

Thomas Partey’s improved fitness record has been costly for Jorginho

Jorginho cost Arsenal £10m in 2023, an excellent deal for the club with all considered.

However, judging by how the season is unfolding, it does seem as if it could be the former Chelsea player’s last at the club, and potentially his final hurrah in English football.

Jorginho has been linked with a return to Italy, where he’s already made 151 appearances in the Serie A throughout his career.

Arsenal fans will hope that Jorginho is playing alongside Ethan Nwaneri against Preston, who supporters are keen to see much more of.

That being said, Ian Wright wants Myles Lewis-Skelly to play more often on his part, an 18-year-old who evidently has a big future ahead.