ARSENAL fans are fearing the worst following rumours Granit Xhaka is missing from the squad for tonight’s clash against Southampton.
The Gunners hosts the struggling Saints after consecutive 2-2 draws with Liverpool and West Ham.
AlamyRumours on Twitter claimed Granit Xhaka was not with the squad ahead of the game[/caption]
Mikel Arteta’s side squandered a 2-0 lead in both games – hampering their chances of a first Premier League title since 2004.
Those results mean Friday’s clash against Southampton is a huge tests of the Gunners’ character.
But ahead of the game, rumours emerged on Twitter in the build up to the Southampton clash that key midfielder Xhaka, 30, was not with the squad.
And Arsenal supporters were left fearing the worst after the rumours broke.
One wrote on Twitter: “Not good news.”
Another said: “Why is this all happening now?”
And a third added: “Of all days!”
Their fears were confirmed when Xhaka was not named in the squad for the match.
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Summer signing Fabio Vieira took his place in midfield.
In positive news for the Gunners, Oleksandr Zinchenko returns to the starting line up after missing the 2-2 draw against West Ham.
Xhaka has been crucial in helping Arteta and Co to the top of the Prem table this season.
He has started 30 out of 31 league games so far this campaign – scoring five goals and chipping in with five assists.
Following Friday’s clash with the Saints, Arsenal travel to Manchester City on Wednesday in a game which could potentially decide who wins the title.