Why Piero Hincapie wasn't in Arsenal's squad for Ipswich Carabao Cup tie
Piero Hincapie was expected to be named in Mikel Arteta's starting eleven for Arsenal's trip to Ipswich Town on Tuesday night, but has instead been left out of the squad entirely.
The Ecuadorian has slotted into a back-up role at the start of this season, playing second fiddle to the imperious Riccardo Calafiori. The Italian's excellent form has kept his South American counterpart out of the squad, although this deputy role will inevitably come with regular minutes given the first choice's injury record.
Hincapie started against Napoli last week and impressed in the process. Most assumed that he would be granted another opportunity in Wednesday night's Carabao Cup clash against Ipswich, with Calafiori needing a rest.
However, his name was nowhere to be seen on the teamsheet when it was released 75 minutes before kick-off.
Arteta was asked about Hincapie's omission in his pre-match interview on Sky Sports, and the Spaniard hinted that the defender is merely fatigued.
"Well, with some players they were carrying some fatigue, some players who have real issues who we have to look after, and other players who are available, who are fresh and in better conditions to play," he said.
While Arteta didn't directly address Hincapie's situation, fortunately for Arsenal supporters, it appears the former Bayer Leverkusen star isn't suffering from anything serious.
Arsenal's depth in defensive areas is so remarkable that they can deal without Hincapie and still rest Calafiori for an early League Cup fixture.
The Italy international still dropped to the bench at Portman Road, with Myles Lewis-Skelly returning to left-back following his recent lengthy stint in the middle of the park. While Lewis-Skelly has clearly shown that he is a more natural midfielder, he is well versed in operating as a full-back, and having him as a third-choice option in this role is a luxury most other teams don't have.
Against Brighton on Saturday, Arteta is likely to revert to Calafiori at left-back.
An official prognosis hasn't been made, so it's not clear when exactly Hincapie will be ready to make his return.
However, given that the issue has been declared a 'minor knock', it's unlikely he's facing an extended spell on the sidelines. Fortunately, with the international break coming up, Hincapie shouldn't miss more than just the Brighton game, and should be in contention to feature against Leeds in early October.
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