Mikel Arteta provides positive Martin Zubimendi injury update ahead of Nottingham Forest clash

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has delivered an encouraging injury update on Martin Zubimendi, raising hopes that the midfielder could return for Sunday's Premier League trip to Nottingham Forest.

The Spain international missed Arsenal's 3-0 Champions League victory over Lille on Tuesday after suffering an ankle injury during a training session following the win against Leeds United.

Arteta expects the 27-year-old's absence to be relatively short, although his availability for the weekend remains uncertain.

Speaking after Arsenal's victory over Lille, Arteta suggested Zubimendi could be sidelined for days rather than weeks.

"Zubi, I expect, yeah [only days]," the Arsenal manager said.

"We have to see the moment he goes on that pitch, how he deals with the pain and some small feelings that he will have."

The update suggests Arsenal are optimistic about the midfielder's recovery, but Arteta made clear that his response to returning to training will determine when he can play again.

Zubimendi has become an important part of Arsenal's midfield since arriving at the Emirates, providing defensive stability and helping the Gunners control possession.

Arsenal managed comfortably without Zubimendi against Lille, scoring three goals in seven second-half minutes to secure another Champions League victory.

Martin Odegaard, Bukayo Saka and Kai Havertz all contributed after coming off the bench, with Saka registering a goal and an assist.

The result extended Arsenal's winning run in the Champions League league phase to 14 matches.

However, Sunday's trip to the City Ground presents another important test, and Arteta will be keen to have Zubimendi available if he recovers in time.

The midfielder's inclusion will depend on whether he can train without significant discomfort before the match.

Arsenal travel to Nottingham Forest on Sunday in the Premier League.

Zubimendi will be assessed as he returns to training, with Arteta expected to make a final decision based on the midfielder's fitness and response to his ankle injury.