Reyes doubtful for City clash
Arsenal winger Jose Antonio Reyes is a doubt for Saturday’s match against Manchester City after sustaining painful bruising to his ribs.
Fortunately for Gunners boss Arsene Wenger, Reyes is not facing a lengthy lay-off with the injury sustained in Tuesday’s Champions League victory at Sparta Prague, after fears he may have broken a rib proved unfounded.
Reyes had dreaded being absent for several weeks after a collision in Prague, which forced him off the pitch after just 15 minutes.
With Sol Campbell, Ashley Cole, Freddie Ljungberg and Alexander Hleb already sidelined, and Thierry Henry having only just returned from a six-week lay-off, Arsenal were potentially facing another costly injury blow.
However, the club’s website, www.arsenal.com, reported: “Jose Antonio Reyes has not fractured his rib but has suffered bruising that makes him doubtful for the visit of Manchester City on Saturday.
“The Arsenal striker left the field after 15 minutes at Sparta Prague last night in considerable pain after a heavy challenge.
“It was feared he had cracked a rib and would be sidelined for some time. However he underwent an x-ray which revealed only bruising. His absence is now expected to be short term.”
Arsenal must still assess whether Henry is ready to face City after replacing Reyes so early in Tuesday’s game following his lengthy lay-off.
