Arsenal vs Chelsea: Mikel Arteta Reacts to News Cole Palmer Could Miss Emirates Trip

• Cole Palmer is a major doubt for Chelsea's EPL clash against Arsenal
• The Blues' ace is said to be struggling with illness ahead of the derby
• Palmer has been impressive so far, scoring 20 Premier League goals

Mikel Arteta has reacted to the news of Cole Palmer facing the prospect of missing Chelsea's trip to the Emirates Stadium.

Arsenal, who are currently topping the Premier League standings, are scheduled to host the Blues on Tuesday night in the London derby.

However, Mauricio Pochettino is likely to be without Palmer for the cracker, with the Englishman having fitness issues.

According to the BBC, the former Manchester City ace is a doubt for the encounter, only days after he was pictured with a strapping around his left thigh during Chelsea's FA Cup semi-final clash against Manchester City.

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Discussing his availability for the Arsenal match, Pochettino disclosed that his starman is struggling to recover from illness in time for the derby.

Arteta speaks on Palmer's possible absence

Speaking in his pre-match conference, Arteta shared his feelings on the possible absence of Palmer from Chelsea's XI.

According to the Spaniard, they are either way prepared for a tough match against their rivals, irrespective of who will make the starting lineup.

"I don’t know… we have no control over their availability. We only have control over ours. Whatever they put out, when you look at the squad, the quality that they have, it’s great," he said via Metro UK.

"I think they are doing very, very well and much better than people say. It will be a tough match, for sure," he added.

Palmer has been the shining light in Chelsea's otherwise underwhelming season, with the youngster the joint-top scorer in the league with 20 goals.

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How Chelsea could line up vs Arsenal

Earlier, Sports Brief analysed how Chelsea could line up in the absence of Palmer for their Arsenal clash.

Pochettino is expected to rethink his team set-up for the much-anticipated London derby.

A win for the Gunners will cement their lead at the top as the title race hots up.