Martinez fit for Arsenal, says Bayern's Heynckes
AFP
February 17, 2013 22:54 MYT
February 17, 2013 22:54 MYT
Bayern Munich midfielder Javi Martinez is set to face Arsenal in Tuesday's Champions League clash, coach Jupp Heynckes said on Sunday, after the Spain star recovered from a foot injury.
The 24-year-old sat out Bayern's 2-0 Bundesliga win at VfL Wolfsburg on Friday with a heavily bruised big toe, but having trained over the weekend, is expected to play in the last 16, first-leg clash at Arsenal's Emirates Stadium.
"As things stand at the moment, it looks really good. He is available again," said Heynckes ahead of Monday morning's flight to London.
"We have to see how the injury reacts, but I think it'll be ok."
Martinez has forged a strong defensive midfield partnership alongside Germany star Bastian Schweinsteiger this season and his influence was missing against Wolfsburg.
Although Arsenal were knocked out of the FA Cup on Saturday after their 1-0 defeat at home to Championship side Blackburn Rovers, Heynckes said he expects a tough match against the Gunners in London.
"Despite the result, Arsenal have found their rhythm again in the last few weeks, they are very good going forwards and are an excellent team," said the 67-year-old.