Arteta misses two of his starters for crucial Leverkusen rematch

Arsenal's preparations for their Champions League showdown with Bayer Leverkusen this Tuesday night (11 pm) have been overshadowed by a growing injury list, with key names still missing at a crucial stage of the season.

There was at least a glimmer of good news at London Colney on Monday, as Leandro Trossard returned to training after his recent injury setback. The Belgian has been out since limping off in the FA Cup win over Mansfield and missed both the first leg in Germany (1-1) and the weekend victory against Everton.

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His presence on the training pitch offers hope, but no guarantees. His availability for Tuesday remains uncertain.

Beyond that, the picture is far less reassuring.

Captain Martin Odegaard is still sidelined with a knee problem, leaving a major creative void, while Jurrien Timber has emerged as a fresh concern after picking up an ankle injury against Everton. The Dutch defender, heavily relied upon in recent weeks amid Ben White's own fitness struggles, is now a serious doubt for the second leg, and could even be held back for the upcoming League Cup final.

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It leaves Mikel Arteta juggling options at both ends of the pitch, with Arsenal's depth once again being tested.

Odegaard, though, has offered a note of optimism, insisting his return is edging closer: "I'm desperate to get back as soon as I can," he said recently, underlining his determination to rejoin the run-in.

Amid the injury cloud, one bright spark continues to emerge.

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Teenage sensation Max Dowman was once again involved in training after his record-breaking Premier League goal at the weekend. Now re-registered in Arsenal's Champions League squad, the 16-year-old could be thrust into the spotlight if Arteta's options remain limited.

With the stakes rising and bodies dropping, Arsenal head into a decisive European night not at full strength - but still very much in the fight.

UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE - ROUND OF 16

Return leg

Tuesday

20.45: (1.50) Sporting (5.40) Bodo (5.70)

23.00: (1.28) Arsenal (5.70) Leverkusen (12.0)

23.00: (2.15) Chelsea (4.25) PSG (3.05)

23.00: (1.46) Manchester City (5.50) Real Madrid (6.10)

Wednesday

20.45: (1.57) Barcelona (4.65) Newcastle (5.00)

23.00: (1.35) Bayern (5.30) Atalanta (8.00)

23.00: (1.30) Liverpool (6.10) Galatasaray (8.50)

23.00: (2.60) Tottenham (3.75) Atl.Madrid (2.65)

***odds are subject to change***