Last Updated: Fri, 16 Mar 2012 09:01
Arsene Wenger has confirmed Per Mertesacker will not play again this season but is hopeful Jack Wilshere could still feature.
The Gunners have been without German defender Mertesacker since he damaged his ankle ligaments during the 2-1 win over Sunderland in February, resulting in him being stretched off.
Mertesacker underwent surgery to correct the problem and Wenger had initially said he would be out for the long-term.
The Frenchman has now confirmed his worst fears, ruling out the centre-half until next season as there isn't enough time for him to recover to feature in the current campaign.
"I believe Per will be out for the rest of the season. Basically there are only six weeks to go [this season] so I don't think he'll be sharp enough to come back and play. He would need to train and get back to full fitness," Wenger told Arsenal.com
In his injury update Wenger also spoke about Wilshere, who has missed the entire season thus far after picking an ankle injury in pre-season.
The England midfielder was expected back in February initially but a set back in his recovery has forced Arsenal to reevaluate his injury, with Wenger hopeful but coy on the prospect of him playing this season.
"Jack's scan was positive. There is no problem, it is normal evolution and he is continuing his progression. It's too early to fix a date though, we go day by day with him," Wenger added.
Wenger went on to say that he expected Francis Coquelin back in training in two weeks, while Abou Diaby could feature for the reserves next Tuesday.
Have you an opinion on this story? Put your money where your mouth is and claim a free £25 bet.
