Sterling can expect a run of starts now, though, given Arsenal’s injury situation. Gabriel Jesus and Havertz are both out for the rest of the season, while Bukayo Saka and Martinelli each face another month on the sidelines.

Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta has suggested the club could look to the free-agent market to address their growing injury crisis in attack. With Gabriel Martinelli and Kai Havertz sidelined by hamstring injuries, and both Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Jesus also out, the Gunners find themselves dangerously short on firepower.

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta believes the accumulation of long-term injuries experienced by some clubs is an “accident waiting to happen” because of the increased demands on players in a busy soccer calendar.