Pereira to miss Arsenal clash through injury as Fulham boss Marco Silva gives verdict on Andreas Pereira
Fulham boss Marco Silva has confirmed that Andreas Pereira will miss their Premier League clash with Arsenal on Saturday through injury.
The 26-year-old has been a key player for the Cottagers this season, scoring five goals and providing four assists in 19 appearances in all competitions.
However, he suffered a knock in training this week and will not be fit to face the Gunners.
"Andreas Pereira will not be available for the Arsenal game," Silva told reporters on Friday.
"He had a small issue in training this week and he will not be available for this match."
Pereira's absence is a blow to Fulham, who are looking to build on their impressive start to the season.
The Cottagers are currently ninth in the Premier League table, level on points with eighth-placed Brentford.
They have won their last two matches, beating Southampton 2-1 at home and Brighton 1-0 away.
Fulham will be hoping to continue their good form against Arsenal, who are currently top of the Premier League table.
The Gunners have won their last three matches in all competitions, scoring 10 goals in the process.
It will be a tough test for Fulham, but they will be confident of getting a result if they can perform to their best.
Silva on Pereira's injury
"It's a small injury, but it's enough to keep him out of the Arsenal game," Silva said.
"We're hoping to have him back for the next match, but we'll have to see how he recovers."
Silva also praised Pereira's impact on the team since he joined from Manchester United in the summer.
"Andreas has been a very important player for us this season," Silva said.
"He's a very talented player who can create chances and score goals.
"He's also a very hard worker and he's always willing to learn.
"I'm very happy with him and I'm sure he will continue to be a key player for us in the future."
Hermansen 'one of the best in the league'?
Silva also spoke about defender Kevin Mbabu, who has been linked with a move to Arsenal in recent weeks.
"Kevin is a very good player and he's one of the best in the league in his position," Silva said.
"He's very fast, he's very strong and he's very good in the air.
"He's also a very good character and he's a very important player for us.
"I'm not surprised that he's attracting interest from other clubs, but he's a Fulham player and we want to keep him."
Conclusion
Fulham will be without Andreas Pereira for their Premier League clash with Arsenal on Saturday.
The Cottagers will be hoping to continue their good form against the Gunners, who are currently top of the Premier League table.
Silva also praised Pereira's impact on the team since he joined from Manchester United in the summer.
Silva also spoke about defender Kevin Mbabu, who has been linked with a move to Arsenal in recent weeks.