Arteta says World Cup duo 'will be ready' for Premier League return

The Gunners are aiming to secure the Premier League title this season after going into the World Cup five points clear of Manchester City at the top of the table.

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Saka and Martinelli both played key roles for their countries in Qatar, with England and Brazil, respectively.

Despite their valiant efforts, Arteta needs them more than ever, following injury to Reiss Nelson.

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The 23-year-old picked up a knock at the weekend against Juventus in a friendly, and tests haven't provided good news for the Gunners boss.

Strength in depth has been a concern among Arsenal fans, but Arteta has suggested Martinelli and Saka go straight back into the line-up.

"I don't have any concerns," the Spaniard told reporters.

"They have assessed really well and they will be training for us in the next few days so hopefully they will be ready. They came back [to the club] straight away into the rhythm, shape and mood of the team.

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"We are waiting for them and they are desperate to be back as well. I've spoken to both of them, Gabi was here on Saturday: a big smile, big energy and ready to go again. It's going to be a big boost for the team."

Saka was a standout performer for the Gunners before the World Cup.

The 20-year-old notched 10 goal contributions in 14 appearances before domestic action was halted.

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Martinelli, meanwhile, may have played a bit-part role for his nation, but does have five goals to his name so far in the Premier League.

Arsenal face West Ham on Boxing Day, Brighton on New Year's Eve and Newcastle on January 3, as they look to rediscover their momentum.

Arteta has backed his stars to step up to the plate following injury to Gabriel Jesus, and heaped praise on skipper Martin Odegaard.

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"Martin's doing what he needs to do in a really mature way and he has a really, really important role in the team," added Arteta.

"Obviously, the fact that Gabi is injured, we're going to have to give an extra percentage but on every single player, let's do it through the squad.

"Hopefully there will be no concerns. This period we're in, normally every season in the Premier League is extremely condensed, we play every three or four days, so players are used to it.

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"It is a little bit different because they have been with their national teams and obviously they have been demanding different things to what we do, but hopefully we can control that in the right way."