Alessia Russo and Chloe Kelly have both won races against time to be fit for Arsenal's Champions League semi-final against Lyon – but only one starts.
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Russo & Kelly were both doubts after knocksPair had to withdraw from Lionesses duty this monthBut recover for Arsenal's Champions League semi-finalFollow GOAL on WhatsApp! 🟢📱WHAT HAPPENED?
Russo and Kelly were both doubts for Saturday's Champions League semi-final first leg at home to Lyon, eight-time winners of this competition. Kelly pulled out of the England squad before the Lionesses' first game of the April international break due to a foot problem, while Russo had to withdraw between matches after picking up an issue in the 5-0 victory over Belgium.
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However, though both players couldn't be involved in Arsenal's league win over Leicester on Tuesday night, they have recovered in time for Saturday's huge game. Russo is fit enough to start, which is crucial given how important she is to the Gunners' play. Kelly, meanwhile, is able to make the bench.
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It's not all good news for Arsenal, though. The Gunners are without Daphne van Domselaar, their No.1 goalkeeper, due to an ankle problem that could well have ended her season. Manuela Zinsberger, who has largely been first-choice since joining the club in 2019, will deputise in her absence.
Getty ImagesWHAT NEXT FOR RUSSO, KELLY & ARSENAL?
After Saturday's home leg against Lyon, Arsenal will travel to France to take on the eight-time European champions in the return game on April 27. The winner of this semi-final will face either Chelsea or Barcelona, the reigning champions, in May's Champions League final.
