Gabriel Magalhaes will undergo a fitness test ahead of Arsenal’s trip to Newcastle, Arteta reveals

Gabriel Maglahaes faces a belated fitness test ahead of Arsenal’s crucial visit to Newcastle this weekend, with centre-back William Saliba already expecting to miss the trip to St James’ Park.

Saliba has been absent for each of Arsenal’s last seven matches since injuring his back against Sporting in March.

Gabriel, meanwhile, was sent off towards the end of Arsenal’s midweek win over Chelsea after a kick to the ankle.

That led to fears that Mikel Arteta would have to miss both of his first-choice centre-backs for Sunday’s game.

“We’ll have to see how he is tomorrow, but he couldn’t finish the game, so that was a big sign,” Arteta said of Gabriel.

The Arsenal defender suffered an injury on Tuesday during the weekday game against Chelsea

Mikel Arteta could be without both of his favorite centre-backs, with William Saliba also out

On Saliba, the manager added: “There is not much progress. He’s feeling better every day, but he hasn’t been able to get any activity around the first team, so we don’t expect him to be with us (against Newcastle).

However, Arteta still refuses to rule out a Saliba return before the end of the season.

“We’re not there yet because we’re always hopeful and pushing players to play. if it does, we will announce it, but hopefully not,” the manager said.

“It’s about the healing process, in terms of pain and the things he can do off the field, he’s in a good place, but we need to build that capacity with the right load so that he can contribute to the team.”

A defeat at Newcastle could end Arsenal’s title hopes.

They are likely to arrive at St James’ Park four points behind Manchester City.