Gabriel Martinelli passed fit for Southampton clash, Emile Smith Rowe doubtful

Arsenal have been handed an injury boost with the news that Gabriel Martinelli is fit for Saturday's Premier League encounter with Southampton.

The Brazilian starlet went off with a suspected hamstring problem in Monday's defeat to Everton, and Mikel Arteta conceded that he was "not very positive" about the issue.

However, Arsenal's Friday morning medical update revealed that Martinelli is available for selection for the weekend, but Emile Smith Rowe remains a doubt with a tight groin.

The update read: "Gabi was substituted during the match against Everton on Monday. He has been fully assessed since and is fit and available for selection for Saturday's match.

"Emile sustained a groin issue during the match against Manchester United last week and is being assessed ahead of Saturday's match."

Second-choice goalkeeper Bernd Leno is also being assessed with a similar injury, and Sead Kolasinac is out until the New Year with a serious ankle problem.

Arsenal welcome Southampton to the Emirates having slipped to seventh in the Premier League table - four points adrift of fourth-placed West Ham United.