Arsene Wenger has revealed Theo Walcott’s surgery went well, however there is no hope he will return for the World Cup in the summer as expected.
Nacho Monreal, who suffered a foot injury against Aston Villa, looks a big doubt for this weekend. Tomas Rosicky is also a doubt after undergoing surgery on his broken nose sustained on Monday night, but could return very soon with a protective mask.
Aaron Ramsey is still a couple games off, as are Mikel Arteta and Thomas Vermaelen. However In more promising news, Nicklas Bendtner could sooner than expected, with Wenger earmarking him for a return after next Friday’s FA Cup fixture with Coventry.
The Arsenal boss revealed the following team news ahead of this weekend’s home tie with Fulham:
[on Theo Walcott’s surgery] It went very well. The damage was real in the knee so he will have to take the needed time, so let’s not be hopeful that he will go to the World Cup – that is not possible. But overall his long-term future is very positive. It’s about being fit for next season now.
[on Monreal and Rosicky] Monreal looks a doubt for Saturday, a big doubt, because he twisted his foot on the kick. It is not the bruise, he turned and twisted the ligament. Rosicky had surgery with a general anaesthetic for a broken nose in two places. With a mask he may be available, but we have to monitor it closely.
[on Arteta (calf), Vermaelen (knee) and Ramsey (thigh)] Ramsey and Arteta are both out for this game. Vermaelen too. I personally believe the three will miss the Coventry game as well and will be available after that.
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[on Bendtner (ankle)] He has a little chance to make Coventry. But in all probability it will be after that.
Predicted lineup to follow…
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