Ex-Arsenal player Perry Groves has stirred the pot with a provocative appeal to the club's players during the international break. He argues that footballers should avoid injuries at all costs while representing their national teams — even resorting to simulating injuries if necessary.
Five Arsenal players have already departed from the England squad ahead of Nations League fixtures against Spain, Czech Republic, and Croatia. Declan Rice is among those who cited health issues, despite having recently played a full match against Brighton.
Groves stated:
Yes, I said it. Yes, after these words I’ll be called a disgrace to my country, but I don’t care.
I’ve already mentioned that I want success for the England team, but their results won’t change my life. The victories of Arsenal will.
Let’s be honest: every Arsenal supporter will be anxiously checking their phones during the break, monitoring the line-ups of various national teams, and worrying about why a player isn’t playing or why someone got substituted.
Go to your national teams, but just don’t get injured because the match against Leeds is massively important. Every game counts right now, but following our match with Brighton, even a draw against Leeds would significantly crank up the pressure.
After suffering defeat against Brighton, it’s crucial for the Gunners to avoid further injury issues as they prepare to return to Premier League action.
