Arteta could unleash 'unique' 20-year-old for Arsenal v Southampton

Arsenal are in dire need of a win on Saturday following a downturn in form.

The Gunners have lost three of their last four Premier League games, leading to alarm bells ringing once again.

In addition, Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta reportedly has a fresh injury problem on his hands.

According to Goal.com journalist Charles Watts, Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang missed Friday’s training session.

The Arsenal captain was training as normal at the start of the week – as late as Thursday, in fact.

Watts added that it’s unclear why Aubameyang didn’t report for training on Friday.

However, there are suggestions the £56million marksman could be unwell.

If the report is true, then Arteta has a couple of options at his disposal.

The likelihood is he’ll start Alexandre Lacazette up front.

Eddie Nketiah is another option – but a third potential option is likely to excite fans.

Folarin Balogun is a player in need of first-team senior football – here or somewhere else.

In just 13 Premier League 2 and EFL Trophy appearances, the 20-year-old has scored a staggering 16 goals.

He has earned plaudits aplenty – Arteta has hailed his “incredible” progress and deemed him “unique“.

Balogun started the season in the first team, but it was a baptism of fire as Arsenal had many personnel issues then.

He has since dropped back to the Under-23s, but it’s obvious he’s now too good for that.

Per Mertesacker admitted earlier this week that Balogun is likely to go on loan in January.

But in the meantime, Southampton at the Emirates would be a great shout for him to see what he can do.

Arteta could unleash ‘unique’ 20-year-old for Arsenal v Southampton – TBR View