TIERNEY COULD RETURN FOR EUROPA LEAGUE SEMI-FINAL

Kieran Tierney could make his return from a knee injury for the second leg of Arsenal's Europa League semi-final clash with Villarreal tonight.

The Gunners trail 2-1 from the first leg in Spain but left-back Tierney, pictured, could be recalled for his first appearance since April 3, while striker Alexandre Lacazette has overcome a hamstring issue and may also be involved.

Centre-back David Luiz suffered a hamstring injury of his own in Sunday's win over Newcastle and is unlikely to feature, while midfielder Dani Ceballos is suspended after being sent off in the first leg.

Gunners boss Mikel Arteta believes his side can take their “biggest step forward” under his management if they top a turbulent season by booking their place in the final. The Gunners welcome former head coach Unai Emery back to the Emirates Stadium after Nicolas Pepe’s penalty at El Madrigal gave Arsenal what could prove to be a crucial away goal.

Having not played Champions League football since 2017, winning the Europa League could take the club back into the elite competition for next season. That appears to be the only path left open to Arsenal, who are 12 points off the Premier League’s top four with just four games remaining.

Arteta guided the club to the FA Cup last season, less than eight months after replacing Emery, but knows this tie is huge in terms of the short-term future as a potential takeover also continue to rumble on in the background. “Well it’s a big moment,” he said of the second leg. “I think it will be really important and our biggest step forward if we are able to be in that final and have the opportunity to win that trophy.”