Arsenal captain Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang has explained his absence from the last two matches has been due to his mother suffering from “health issues”.
Aubameyang missed the 1-0 FA Cup defeat at Southampton on Saturday as well as the 3-1 Premier League victory over Saints three days later.
Gunners boss Mikel Arteta dedicated Tuesday’s win to the Gabon striker, with Arsenal’s goalscorers all sending messages of support to Aubameyang with their celebrations.
Aubameyang had travelled with the squad for the game on Saturday before leaving just hours before kick-off and he revealed on Wednesday afternoon that he had been supporting his mother.
“Hey guys, thank you so much for all the messages and calls over the last few days,” he wrote on Instagram.
“My mother is going through some health issues and I had to be there for her. She’s already much better now and I will be back home tonight.
“I’m more than grateful to the doctors and nurses helping her get through this.
“And of course, thanks to my Arsenal fam for the love yesterday! I’m more determined than ever to keep our momentum going!
“Thank you all again – I really am beyond blessed to receive this level of support and love from all of you and I can’t wait to be back – PEA.”
The PA news agency understands Arsenal will keep supporting Aubameyang and a decision has yet to be made whether he will return for Saturday’s Premier League visit of Manchester United.
