Arsene Wenger facing defensive crisis for Chelsea clash with Shkodran Mustafi set for late fitness test
Sponsored by
ARSENE WENGER is desperate for Skhodran Mustafi to pass a fitness test as he faces a defensive crisis.
The Gunners chief is heading into tomorrow's EFL Cup semi-final clash at Chelsea with Nacho Monreal and Sead Kolasinac out and Laurent Koscienly a major doubt.
And Mustafi could pile further misery on the Frenchman, who is desperate to win the trophy for the first time.
Wenger, 68, said: "Mustafi will have a test today. I don’t know exactly how available he will be. I will know more after training.
“I would love to win it because we are now in the semi-final. If there’s an opportunity we will try to take it.
“There’s still a long way to go. It’s similar to what we saw last year in the FA Cup.”
Latest Arsenal news
Chelsea, meanwhile, have Eden Hazard returning to fitness - although Ross Barkley is not ready to make his debut.
Blues chief Antonio Conte said: "Eden is in a good physical condition. He had a little problem but he is in contention for the game.
'NO CHANCE' Arsene Wenger fears losing Jonny Evans to Man City if move comes down to wages
"Wednesday night, I think is very soon for Ross but his physical condition is good.
"He has started to do the training sessions with us to understand our idea of football.
"He must be pleased but he needs a bit of time to work on the physical and tactical aspect. But I think his condition is very good.
"It is very difficult to say when he will play but, at the same time, I am very positive because the player is a good guy and showing great will and desire to work and help us very soon.
"It's positive and I am very happy to have Ross with us for the rest of the season."