Saka returned to training this week following the Three Lions’ World Cup elimination against France at the quarter-final stage.
Martinelli is also back with the group after Brazil were dumped out by Croatia at the same stage with France international William Saliba the only player still to return after Les Blues lost in Sunday’s final to Argentina.
Mikel Arteta named a strong XI for Wednesday’s game against Luton with Saka and Martinelli both getting minutes ahead of the Boxing Day clash with West Ham United.
The Gunners boss has already indicated he will have no hesitation in starting the duo when the Premier League leaders get their campaign back underway.
‘I don’t have any concerns,’ Arteta said of the two forwards. ‘They have assessed really well and they will be training for us in the next few days so hopefully they will be ready.
‘They came back [to the club] straight away into the rhythm, shape and mood of the team.
‘We are waiting for them and they are desperate to be back as well. I’ve spoken to both of them, Gabi was here on Saturday: a big smile, big energy and ready to go again. It’s going to be a big boost for the team.’
Oleksandr Zinchenko and Emile Smith Rowe were not involved against Luton with the duo still recovering from injury with Reiss Nelson, who picked up a knock in the weekend defeat to Juventus, also absent.
Eddie Nketiah led the line once again with Gabriel Jesus expected to be sidelined for up to three months after undergoing knee surgery, ruling him out of key fixtures against City, Tottenham and Manchester United.
While the Gunners are looking to made additions to the squad in January, Arteta has suggested he could move Martinelli in a centre forward role, naming Smith Rowe as another possible option.
‘It’s a huge blow for us, obviously,’ said Arteta of Jesus’ injury.
‘He’s such an important player: he’s brought something very different to the team and it’s impossible to replace him. But we have other players, other alternatives and we’ll try to get that sorted. The transfer window is another option.
‘I think [Jesus] is a unique player but Eddie [Nketiah] has incredible qualities as well for the way we want to play. We have other alternatives in that we can play Martinelli up front as well.
‘We are currently a little bit short in terms of upfront positions but getting Emile [Smith Rowe] back is going to be a big one.’
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