Gunners On Fire Despite Virus

They overcome bug outbreak to overturn Brentford's advantage for crucial victory

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Mikel Arteta has revealed Arsenal's preparations for their 3-1 win at Brentford on Jan 1 were hampered by a virus that swept through his squad.

Several of Arsenal's stars were struck down by the illness on the eve of the crucial English Premier League clash.

German forward Kai Havertz was sent home with the bug, while England midfielder Declan Rice was only able to come off the bench in the second half.

Martin Odegaard reportedly struggled with the virus ahead of kick-off and although he was able to start, the Arsenal captain made a mistake that led to Bryan Mbeumo's opener and was replaced in the second half.

But the Gunners recovered impressively at the Brentford Community Stadium to climb back into the title race, even in star winger Bukayo Saka's absence due to a hamstring injury.

Goals from Gabriel Jesus, Mikel Merino and Gabriel Martinelli ensured Arsenal would not be derailed.

"It affected players on the pitch and off the pitch," Arteta said after second-placed Arsenal moved within six points of leaders Liverpool, who have a game in hand.