Arteta: My Reaction Was Driven by Emotion and Disappointment

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has confirmed that Declan Rice, Riccardo Calafiori, and Christos Tzolis are back in training, while Noni Madueke remains a doubt ahead of tomorrow's final session. The Gunners travel to Anfield to face Liverpool in a blockbuster Premier League clash this weekend, with both sides eager to keep pace with league leaders Manchester City.

"They all trained today, they will train tomorrow, and if everything goes well, they will be available. We are still not entirely sure about Noni Madueke. That will likely be decided after we see if he can complete tomorrow's session," the Spaniard explained.

Arteta also addressed the fallout from Tuesday's shock Carabao Cup exit on penalties against League Two outfit Fleetwood Town. In the closing stages of the match, highly rated teenage talent Max Dowman was sent off following an aggressive reaction to a heavy challenge. Arteta was visibly critical of the youngster as he walked off the pitch, and Arsenal's subsequent appeal against the red card proved unsuccessful.

"My reaction was driven by emotion and disappointment because we know what the consequences are—especially for Max himself. It is something we had spoken about before stepping onto the pitch, as it is not the first time this has happened. It will keep happening, especially given the way he plays and how he attracts defenders. We have to protect him since he is only 16, but we also need to be direct with him about his responsibilities to the team and the club. I spoke with him yesterday, and there are no issues at all," Arteta stated.