Mikel Arteta hopes Gabriel can be fit again for Saturday’s clash against Newcastle United if he emerges from today’s training unscathed.

The Brazilian defender limped off against Liverpool last weekend and missed the first game of the season against Preston North End in midweek, but the boss revealed he hopes to make his first-choice central defensive duo available again with William Saliba at St James’ Park. He is also returning from suspension.

However, we are still in contact for Gabriel and Mikel explained: “We have a training session today. If he can complete it he will be available. He has not had any training yet but if he can do that today he can be in the squad.”

Ben White replaced William in last Sunday’s 2-2 draw against the Reds but also missed Wednesday’s cup clash with Preston and Mikel admitted he is struggling with a new problem rather than the groin injury that kept him out of action last month.

This means Ben could join Riccardo Calafiori, Martin Odegaard, Takehiro Tomiyasu and Kieran Tierney on the sidelines; This disappointed Mikel, who was pleased with his performance at the heart of our backline at the Emirates Stadium last week.

“Riccardo and Martin are definitely leaving the team. As for Ben, we don’t know yet. He hasn’t trained yet. He hasn’t been able to train, he hasn’t been involved, so let’s wait and see if he’s available. It’s more about the situation: a joint.

“He can play in these two positions, he can adapt his role in these positions and play at different levels, especially in terms of ball control, we demand very special duels against a very tough opponent, especially in that part of the field. “Even though he hasn’t played there in over a year, I think he’s really good for the job.”

Although the Newcastle game is too early for Odegaard’s return, the captain is approaching a return and when asked if there is a chance of his return for the Inter Milan game next week, Mikel said it could be as close as he expected. When given the opportunity to impress again in training, he came roaring back.

Regarding Martin’s progress in his recovery, the boss added: “Now he has reached the stage where he will do certain things with us. Let’s see how he copes with the pain, if he can move naturally enough, if he is at the level physically he is at now. It requires him to compete.”

“But with his work rate and the hours he puts in, I’m surprised we don’t say he looks ready as soon as he starts training with us. Hopefully it will be soon.”