More trouble for Arsenal: Arteta discusses injuries to Calafiori and Trossard
Jan Novak
Dailysports's expert
Arsenal defender Riccardo Calafiori was forced to leave the pitch early in the fifth-round FA Cup clash against Mansfield Town. The Gunners clinched a 2-1 victory, but the win was overshadowed by injuries to the Italian and to Trossard.
Calafiori felt discomfort in the back of his thigh and was substituted with less than 15 minutes to go before the final whistle. According to head coach Mikel Arteta, the player couldn't continue due to the unpleasant sensations.
Both players had minor issues and didn't feel comfortable staying on the pitch. We understood this could happen, especially considering the conditions of the match, so we decided to take them off,
Arteta explained. Calafiori's condition is also causing concern for the Italy national team. Under Gennaro Gattuso, the squad is preparing for the World Cup qualification play-off semifinal against Northern Ireland, set for March 26.