Noni Madueke boost for Arsenal ahead of Southampton clash

Noni Madueke has reportedly travelled with the Arsenal squad ahead of Saturday’s FA Cup quarter-final away to Southampton at St Mary’s, handing Mikel Arteta a timely attacking boost.

The English winger was one of several Arsenal players to miss the recent international break through injury but has made encouraging progress in his recovery.

It is still unclear whether Madueke will make the final matchday squad, with the club expected to make a late decision closer to kick-off.

Earlier this week, Arteta eased initial fears over the extent of the problem, explaining that Madueke’s injury “is nowhere near” as serious as first thought and hinting that a return to action could come within days rather than weeks.

His presence with the group nonetheless reflects a positive step, especially with Arsenal juggling injuries in several key positions.

With a Wembley place on the line and fixtures piling up across competitions, having Madueke back around the first team again offers extra depth and a potential game-changing option as Arsenal chase another deep FA Cup run.