Beth Mead Set for Sensational Comeback Against Aston Villa in the WSL, Confirms Arsenal Coach Jonas Eidevall

Jonas Eidevall has announced that Beth Mead, the Arsenal forward, may finally return to the Women's Super League (WSL) this weekend after making a recovery from her torn ACL injury. Mead sustained the injury during a match against Manchester United at the Emirates in November 2022, which resulted in her missing the remainder of the domestic season and forfeiting her chance to compete for England at the Women's World Cup.

Following her return to full training, the talented Lionesses player is poised to make her debut appearance in the Gunners' WSL squad after an absence of 11 months. Arsenal are scheduled to face Aston Villa at the Emirates on Sunday, hopeful for their first league victory of the season.

Looking ahead to the match, head coach Eidevall expressed, "In terms of squad selection, we have one more training session remaining. Assuming she successfully completes it, she should be fully prepared and eligible for inclusion in the squad."

With her delightful energy, she approaches the game. Possessing both a strong right and left foot, she displays remarkable attacking skills. Undoubtedly, she is a skilled football player, and we eagerly anticipate her return to the field. Previously, the 28-year-old was included in Arsenal's Champions League squad for their matches against Linkoping FC and Paris FC in Sweden last month. However, despite being on the bench, she did not get the opportunity to play as the Gunners were eliminated from the competition.

Several Arsenal players, including Mead, Miedema, Williamson, and Wienrothier, had to deal with ACL injuries last year. While Mead and Miedema have resumed first-team training at London Colney, Miedema is a bit behind in her rehabilitation progress. They are expected to make their comebacks later in the season.

"Regrettably, we have a collective of individuals who have shared a similar experience," Eidevall stated. "Ultimately, it is imperative that you address your own personal matters independently.

"Although it may appear that you have identical injuries on paper, they are never truly identical. Variations always exist, and like any other situation in life, there may be similarities. Assistance can be offered, but ultimately, every aspect will be tailored to your unique individual circumstances."

"I am conscious of not treating people with similar situations in the same way, acknowledging their individual needs. Fortunately, both of them are nearing a return to the game, and hopefully, Beth will be included in the squad for Sunday's match. Arsenal will face their upcoming game at the Emirates without a win against Arsenal men in their last three WSL visits, which includes a surprising 1-0 loss to Liverpool on the opening day of this month."

Eidevall dismissed any concerns about playing in an unfamiliar setting instead of their usual Meadow Park home in Borehamwood. He emphasized that a swift comeback, just two weeks after the previous loss, was precisely what he desired.

He stated, "In January, we faced Chelsea and delivered a strong performance, only to concede in the final minutes. We achieved a 2-0 victory against Bayern Munich, managed a draw against Wolfsburg, and took them to extra time. We were incredibly close to reaching the Champions League final."

Arsenal's next six fixtures

Playing at the Emirates is not a problem whatsoever. I am extremely delighted to return so swiftly following a discouraging performance against Liverpool.

Sunday October 22 - Bristol City vs Arsenal, WSL, kick-off 6.45pm, live on We

Sunday November 5 - Arsenal vs Man City, WSL, kick-off 12.30pm

Thursday November 9 - Arsenal vs Bristol City, Conti Cup, kick-off 7pm

Sunday November 12 - Leicester vs Arsenal, WSL, kick-off 6.45pm, live on We

Sunday November 19 - Brighton vs Arsenal, WSL, kick-off 2pm