Brentford v Arsenal: goalkeeper uncertainty looms over key clash

Arsenal face Brentford tomorrow evening in what is a pivotal clash for the Gunners, with Mikel Arteta’s side seeking to climb to second place in the Premier League and cut Liverpool’s lead to six points.

However, Brentford’s preparations have been hampered by the potential absence of their first-choice goalkeeper, Mark Flekken, who is racing against time to be fit for the match.

Flekken, a consistent presence in the Bees’ goal this season, was forced off during Friday’s goalless draw at Brighton after sustaining an injury in the first half. While Brentford manager Thomas Frank has offered cautiously optimistic updates, the Dutchman’s availability remains uncertain.

“Mark Flekken is more positive. It’s still too early to say he will play against Arsenal, but he can maybe, hopefully, be available,” said Frank, addressing the goalkeeper’s status. Should Flekken be unable to feature, Brentford would likely turn to Iceland international Hakon Valdimarsson for his full Premier League debut.

Valdimarsson, 23, joined Brentford from Swedish side Elfsborg in January for £2.6million and has served as a backup since his arrival. Despite his limited opportunities, the young keeper impressed when called upon against Brighton, keeping a clean sheet in his third appearance for the club.

“But I am in no doubt that (Valdimarsson) will be more than ready for his first Premier League start, if needed. He did very well against Brighton, and I was very pleased with his performance,” added Frank.

Brentford’s injury list extends well beyond their goalkeeping situation, with Thomas Frank navigating a depleted squad.

Defenders Ethan Pinnock (hamstring), Kristoffer Ajer (ankle), and Igor Thiago (joint infection) are all sidelined, while summer signing Gustavo Nunes (back) has yet to make his debut.

Rico Henry (unspecified muscle injury), Aaron Hickey (hamstring), and former Arsenal youngster Josh Dasilva (ACL) remain long-term absentees, leaving the Bees stretched across the pitch.

However, Frank confirmed that Sepp van den Berg and Mathias Jensen are fit enough to return.