Below is a summary of the full article. Click here for the full version or go back to LFC Live.net

Mikel Arteta has given an update on the fitness of Arsenal's injured pair Gabriel Martinelli and Bukayo Saka, ahead of a meeting with the medical team on Thursday.

Meanwhile, Liverpool extended its lead over Arsenal to 13 points after securing a 2-0 victory against Newcastle.

Saka has been sidelined since December, and Martinelli has been out of action since the League Cup defeat to Newcastle earlier in the month, both suffering from hamstring issues.

When questioned about their availability for the upcoming Premier League match at Emirates Stadium against Fulham on April 1, Arteta responded: "I think so [that is more realistic], but again, let's see how they evolve in the next few weeks to make the right steps as well

That has probably a chance before Bukayo to come in, but how soon that is, we'll have to see how it goes in the next week or ten days."

With the Gunners' domestic title chances looking slim, all eyes at the Emirates will be on their ability to advance beyond PSV in the Champions League Round of 16.

A successful passage might set up an elite showdown against either Real Madrid or Atletico Madrid in the quarter-finals, scheduled for April 8/9 and April 15/16

Judging by Arteta's remarks, there's a hope within the club that both Saka and Martinelli could be match-ready by that stage

With Arsenal currently missing that inventive edge, the pair's return to action is eagerly anticipated.


For more news relating to Newcastle United, visit our sister site NUFC Latest Live.