Hey everyone! Let's catch up on the Fantasy Premier League (FPL) scene with some injury updates before the pre-match press conferences roll in this Thursday and Friday. Here’s a quick overview of how things are shaping up across all 20 Premier League teams.
Manchester United vs Everton:
All eyes are on Erik ten Hag as we anticipate updates on Marcus Rashford and Jonny Evans, who encountered setbacks in the high-octane Manchester derby. Ten Hag remarked on their necessity to exit the fray at the Etihad, underscoring the duo's struggle with injuries. The uncertainty looms large with Ten Hag at the helm, expressing his in-the-dark status about their potential time off the pitch. In more positive news, Ten Hag hinted at the return of several key players post-international break, possibly hinting at a delayed comeback for Rasmus Hojlund, Tyrell Malacia, Mason Mount, Lisandro Martinez, Aaron Wan-Bissaka, Anthony Martial, and Harry Maguire. Unfortunately, Luke Shaw is set for a prolonged absence. Over in the Everton camp, Arnaut Danjuma and Dele Alli are confirmed absentees for the upcoming fixture. The spotlight also falls on Idrissa Gana Gueye as we await updates on his groin injury following a noticeable absence in the clash against West Ham United.
Bournemouth vs Sheffield United:
Bournemouth's injury woes deepen as Marcos Senesi joins the casualty list after last weekend's exit with a hamstring strain. Andoni Iraola, Bournemouth’s manager, holds onto hope that Senesi's condition isn't gravely serious, although the defender's withdrawal from the Argentina squad casts a shadow over his immediate availability. The Cherries are also without Lloyd Kelly, Max Aarons, James Hill, and Ryan Fredericks, adding to their defensive puzzles. On a brighter note, Tyler Adams is making strides on the training ground, though he’s expected to regain match fitness with the academy team first. Dominic Solanke, despite knee discomfort, remains bullish about his prospects against Sheffield United and Luton Town. Sheffield United’s Rhian Brewster's absence has been attributed to a hamstring injury, putting his season at further risk. Additionally, Max Lowe, Rhys Norrington-Davies, Chris Basham and John Egan find themselves on the long-term injury list, with Mason Holgate sidelined due to a suspension. The team looks forward to the return of Cameron Archer and Anis Ben Slimane post-international break, with a hopeful update on Daniel Jebbison who's been battling through injury and illness.
Crystal Palace vs Luton Town:
Crystal Palace’s injury roster remains extensive with Marc Guehi, Jesurun Rak-Sakyi, Michael Olise, Cheick Doucoure and Rob Holding sidelined. The silver lining comes with the possibility of Michael Olise making a return in the not-too-distant future, offering a boost to the Eagles' attacking options. Oliver Glasner remains optimistic about Jordan Ayew's chances of avoiding the injury list despite a hip concern from last weekend. Luton Town is grappling with their own injury crisis. Dan Potts, Jacob Brown, Mads Andersen, Marvelous Nakamba and Tom Lockyer continue to be absent. The condition of Elijah Adebayo and Albert Sambi Lokonga, who encountered issues around Double Gameweek 25, remains a concern. The defensive line is particularly hard-hit, with Gabriel Osho missing the previous game and Amar’i Bell lasting mere minutes against Aston Villa. Rob Edwards expressed uncertainty over Bell’s situation post-match. On a positive note, Joe Johnson is expected to make a return from illness, providing some respite for Luton Town.
Wolverhampton Wanderers vs Fulham:
Wolverhampton Wanderers face a challenging period with Hwang Hee-chan and Matheus Cunha both sidelined due to hamstring injuries. Hwang's prognosis suggests a six-week recovery period, casting a shadow over his contributions in the near term, while Cunha harbors hopes of an earlier return. Adding to the injury toll, Joao Gomes missed the last fixture, leaving the extent of his absence a mystery. Wolverhampton did receive some encouraging news regarding Jose Sa and Pedro Neto, who were taken off as a precaution in the defeat to Newcastle United. Gary O’Neil remains optimistic about their recovery ahead of the Fulham match. Fulham’s squad concerns are relatively minor, with only Raul Jimenez confirmed out with a hamstring injury. Joao Palhinha's return from suspension could provide a timely boost to the midfield.
Arsenal vs Brentford:
Arsenal's victory over Sheffield United came at a cost, with Bukayo Saka exiting the match early due to illness and Gabriel Martinelli sustaining a slight injury. The Gunners continue to monitor the recovery progress of Jurrien Timber, Oleksandr Zinchenko, and Takehiro Tomiyasu, with the trio slowly making their way back to potential first-team inclusion. Mikel Arteta’s updates have been particularly vague regarding Zinchenko, maintaining a cloud of uncertainty over his immediate playing future. Conversely, Tomiyasu is reportedly nearing a return, offering some positive news on the injury front. On the Brentford side, the injury list remains lengthy with Ethan Pinnock, Aaron Hickey, Kevin Schade, Rico Henry, Josh Dasilva, and Ben Mee all sidelined. Bryan Mbeumo's return to training sparks hope, yet Thomas Frank’s commentary on his match fitness will be crucial in determining his availability.
Aston Villa vs Tottenham Hotspur:
Aston Villa's medical room has been busy, with Boubacar Kamara, Tyrone Mings, and Emi Buendia all on the long-term injury list, raising concerns about the team's defensive solidity and midfield creativity. However, there's a glimmer of hope on the horizon as Diego Carlos and Jhon Duran have resumed training, potentially adding much-needed depth. Furthermore, Unai Emery's latest update on Jacob Ramsey suggests his injury isn't as severe as feared, offering a potential boost for the midfield. While the Ajax game might be too soon for him, his availability for Gameweek 28 hangs in the balance. Tottenham's injury concerns include the absence of Richarlison and Pedro Porro, who missed out on the latest training session. While Richarlison's timeline was anticipated, Porro's potential return this week adds to the uncertainty. Spurs are also coping without Manor Solomon, Fraser Forster, and Ryan Sessegnon, with each player's return eagerly awaited to bolster the squad's options.
Brighton and Hove Albion vs Nottingham Forest:
Brighton finds itself navigating through a list of absentees including Joao Pedro, Jack Hinshelwood, Solly March, Kauro Mitoma, and James Milner, compounded by Billy Gilmour's suspension. Forest, however, might see the return of Chris Wood and Willy Boly, offering some solace. Nottingham Forest's injury concerns feature Giovani Reyna and Gonzalo Montiel, whose statuses for the upcoming game remain in the air. Nicolas Dominguez, despite muscle tightness against Liverpool, seems to have dodged a more serious injury. Nuno Espirito Santo is also handling the absences of Ola Aina and Nuno Tavares, with the duo assumed to be sidelined for this encounter, continuing Forest's challenges in maintaining squad depth.
West Ham United vs Burnley:
West Ham United approaches the game with Maxwel Cornet ruled out due to a hamstring injury, adding to David Moyes' tactical considerations. The situation around Nayef Aguerd remains uncertain, with his potential involvement described as a "question mark," casting a shadow over the defensive setup. Beyond these concerns, the Hammers boast a relatively healthy squad, poised to capitalize against Burnley. Speaking of Burnley, Vincent Kompany's side is dealing with its own injury predicaments, with Aaron Ramsey, Lyle Foster, Luca Koleosho, and Nathan Redmond on the treatment table. Jordan Beyer's situation is progressing well, though a return date has not been confirmed, leaving Burnley to navigate their upcoming fixtures without key contributors. However, Josh Brownhill's return from suspension could inject some much-needed energy and leadership into the midfield.
Liverpool vs Manchester City: Salah's injury
Liverpool is buoyed by the return of Mohamed Salah's injury being over. He was in the squad for the Europa League game midweek after recovering from a hamstring injury, just in time for the pivotal clash with Manchester City. However, the Reds will miss the services of Diogo Jota, Curtis Jones, Trent Alexander-Arnold, Thiago Alcantara, Stefan Bajcetic, Ben Doak, Joel Matip, Ryan Gravenberch, and Alisson due to various injuries. The depth of Jurgen Klopp's squad will be tested as they seek to maintain competitiveness across all fronts. Manchester City, on their part, adds Jeremy Doku to the list of concerns after a "minor" issue post-Manchester derby, alongside Jack Grealish sidelined with a groin injury. Matheus Nunes' dislocated finger during the Copenhagen match and Phil Foden's recovery from a dead leg are developments Pep Guardiola will monitor closely, aiming to maintain City's momentum.
Chelsea vs Newcastle United:
Chelsea's medical team is stretched thin, managing the recoveries of Carney Chukwuemeka, Romeo Lavia, Lesley Ugochukwu, Reece James, Wesley Fofana, Benoit Badiashile, and Christopher Nkunku. Reports indicate Badiashile has returned to team training, offering a ray of hope, while James continues individual rehab work. The extent of their availability remains a critical aspect for Mauricio Pochettino as he looks to steer Chelsea back to form. Newcastle's casualty list includes Callum Wilson, Joelinton, Sandro Tonali and Nick Pope, limiting Eddie Howe's options. Speculation around Kieran Trippier's absence suggests a cautious approach, with his return anticipated to boost the Magpies' defence shortly. Matt Targett's return to training presents a positive development, potentially widening Howe's tactical choices for the upcoming fixtures.
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