Arsenal handed major boost ahead of Atletico Madrid clash with Juanfran set to miss Europa League semi-finals
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Arsenal have been boosted by the news that Atletico Madrid defender Juanfran is set to miss the Europa League clash.
The Gunners take on Atletico at the Emirates on Thursday in the Europa League semi-final first leg.
The La Liga side are already likely to be without Diego Costa and have now been hit with some more bad news regarding Juanfran, reports Football.London.
The experienced right-back was substituted in his side's 0-0 draw with Real Betis on Sunday after suffering a hamstring injury.
Atletico released a statement on Monday stating that the 33-year-old injured the hamstring in his left leg, although they didn't give a potential return date for the Spanish international.
(Image: REUTERS)
(Image: REUTERS)
Sime Vrsaljko, who replaced Juanfran against Betis on Sunday, is likely to deputise for the former Real Madrid defender at the Emirates on Thursday.
As well as the defender's absence, Atleti could also potentially be missing Diego Costa for the first leg tie.
The ex-Chelsea striker hasn't featured for his side since their 1-0 defeat against Sporting Lisbon in the previous round of the Europa League after also suffering a hamstring injury.
(Image: Getty Images Europe)
However, Simeone has given the club's supporters hope that he could return against the Gunners.
"I think he has little chance of playing on Thursday in the first leg, but he will be back for the second," said the Argentine.