“It’s not that I don’t like Arteta but his decision to bench that particular player today was the reason we lose…We might not finish in top-four if he keeps making such decision’: Arsenal forward Saka faults Mikel Arteta got benching ONE Player today

HusseinNovember 2, 2024Last Updated: November 2, 2024

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Arsenal defender Ben White has been left on the bench by Mikel Arteta for Saturday’s clash with Newcastle United.

Thomas Partey is set to start once again at left-back, with William Saliba, Gabriel and Jurien Timber accompanying him in a back four for the Gunners at St James’ Park.

White’s fitness was discussed by Arteta in his pre-match press conference on Friday, with the Arsenal boss opting to keep the same backline that drew 2-2 with Liverpool last time out.

“With Ben we don’t know yet,” said the Spaniard in his media duties earlier this week. “He could not train so let’s see what happens.”

White started the last three games having only just returned from a month-long injury lay-off, with the thought he would be rested for the clash against Preston, ready for the clash against the Magpies.

However, it is clear Arteta is taking no chances with his recent setback, giving Partey another chance to impress in defence with White named on the bench. football.london understands the move is just a precaution ahead of the midweek game against Inter Milan in the Champions League.

“Ben didn’t quite make it because he only had half a session yesterday,” said the Arsenal boss via TNT Sports. “It’s the third time he’s had a little issue so we had to protect him”