Arsenal full back and Spanish International, Hector Bellerin seems to be the latest casualty of the injury bug. The Spaniard is currently on duty with the U-21 Spanish squad, has reportedly pulled out of the squad due to an unspecified complaint of an injury. According to reports in the English press, the injury is related to the full back’s ear. It appears that the inside of the ear of the defender is bruised and has been a source of discomfort. Now, it seems it has been deemed serious enough to warrant his withdrawal.
From the initial reports that have emerged, it seems that Bellerin’s recent injury is a recurrence of the injury sustained earlier. As a result, the defender was pulled out of training on Tuesday and has since been removed from the squad.
The earlier injury had led to Bellerin missing out on his UEFA Champions League victory at Ludogorets last week.
The Spanish national team was also swift to announce Bellerin’s replacement and have promptly named Sunderland’s Javier Manquillo as cover for Friday's first leg of the European Championship play-off versus Austria. The announcement was made via Spain’s official Twitter account.
Injury setbacks
Injuries are a part and parcel of sports but when it comes to the Gunners they have a more turbulent history when it comes to injuries. This latest piece of news is sure to increase the frown lines of Arsene Wenger.
Earlier this week, reports of Alexis Sanchez suffering a low-grade muscle tear in his calf have already left a man short. The club is still to conduct its own set of tests which will then ascertain the nature of the injury and the expected recovery time.
The Chilean is currently away on international duty and will continue to remain with his national team ahead of their match with Uruguay next week.
The Spanish youngster has been the subject of attention in recent weeks. There has been reported interest from Barcelona where he started out his youth career. In order to quell any such interest, the Gunners have moved swiftly to improve Bellerin’s contract.
Bellerin is apparently on the verge of signing a lucrative new six-year contract at Emirates Stadium. While the details of the contract are yet to be revealed, one can expect an improved wage structure for the youngster.
In recent weeks, the Spaniard has been an integral member of the Gunners squad and has contributed to the club’s rise to 4th position in the league table after a disastrous opening day defeat.
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