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Arsene Wenger facing defensive crisis for Chelsea clash with Shkodran Mustafi set for late fitness test

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.

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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.”

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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.


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“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.

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“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.”

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