Mikel Arteta supports Raheem Sterling as Arsenal face West Ham amid injury crisis

With key attackers Kai Havertz, Gabriel Jesus, Bukayo Saka, and Gabriel Martinelli all sidelined through injury, Arsenal have limited options in attack.

This leaves Arteta with only Leandro Trossard, 17-year-old Ethan Nwaneri, and Sterling as recognised forwards available for selection.

Nwaneri impressed in Arsenal's recent victory over Leicester, while Sterling, currently on loan from Chelsea, has struggled for form.

The winger was substituted after 69 minutes in that match, with his replacement, Mikel Merino, scoring a match-winning brace.

Sterling's lack of impact has been a concern, having started just four league games this season and scoring only once - in a Carabao Cup tie against Bolton in September.

"He has to have it because we really need him," said Arteta.

"Raheem is so experienced, and like many other players, we know that what you did yesterday is not whether it was really good or not.

"That could be relevant to the next game, to the next action. He's fully focused, he's trained really well this week, and he is ready to go again."

However, with Arsenal's attacking crisis, he could be given another opportunity when the Gunners host West Ham at the Emirates on Saturday.

A victory against the Hammers would reduce the gap to league leaders Liverpool to five points.

Liverpool, in turn, face a crucial clash against Manchester City at the Etihad on Sunday, a fixture that could have major implications for the title race. 

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