Earlier today, Patrick Vieira held his pre-match press conference ahead of the Premier League curtain-raiser between Crystal Palace and Arsenal.
During his chat with the media, the Frenchman admitted something which will surely delight Arsenal fans.
What’s the story?
Well, the 46-year-old revealed that Michael Olise will miss the game on Friday night.
The France Under-21 international is one of the most talented attackers in the Premier League, so that will surely be music to the ears of Arsenal supporters everywhere.
Vieira said: “Michael Olise is still a few weeks away and McArthur will not be involved tomorrow.”
Olise enjoyed an impressive debut campaign in the Premier League last term following an £8m move from Reading, scoring four goals while also providing eight assists in 31 appearances across all competitions.
Remarkably, the 20-year-old was up there with the likes of Kevin De Bruyne and Trent Alexander-Arnold when it comes to creativity last season, according to Squawka.
Olise managed to provide an assist for Odsonne Edouard in the 2-2 draw at the Emirates Stadium last season, so he has already proven himself capable of hurting the Gunners.
Therefore, Arsenal fans will surely be breathing a huge sigh of relief.
Crystal Palace can still hurt Arsenal
Having said the above, Olise missed the clash between Arsenal and Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park in April, but the south Londoners still went on to win 3-0.
Vieira has gems such as Wilfried Zaha, Eberechi Eze and Edouard to call upon, while Jean-Philippe Mateta and Jordan Ayew also scored against the Gunners in SE25 last season.
Crystal Palace have also added the exciting Malcolm Ebiowei to their ranks since that win, while Cheick Doucoure has arrived in a £21m deal from RC Lens.
Hopefully, tomorrow’s clash between the Eagles and the Gunners is far more competitive than April’s 3-0 drubbing.
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