Takehiro Tomiyasu was forced off with an apparent hamstring injury in Monday’s Premier League match against Newcastle United at St James’ Park.
With Gabriel Magalhaes and Ben White both fit to start in the heart of the defense, the Japan international took his spot on the right side of the backline.
However, Tomiyasu failed to control Newcastle’s energetic Allan Saint-Maximin in the first half as the Gunners were beaten mercilessly.
Tomiyasu, who has fought with calf issues for the duration of 2022, tumbled down gripping his hamstring on the St James’ Park pitch with 38 minutes on the clock.
Mikel Arteta’s side, who had been second best to Newcastle’s energy and were thankful to Aaron Ramsdale for keeping out Saint-Maximin’s low effort, immediately replaced Tomiyasu.
Tottenham Hotspur will be in the driving position for fourth place before their final-day game with Norwich City if Arsenal fails to turn the tie around in the second half and win.
