Arsene Wenger’s worries grow as key duo ruled out for two games

Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger has been dealt a huge injury blow following the news that key midfielders Aaron Ramsey and Mikel Arteta will be sidelined for The Gunners’ next two fixtures.

The North Londoners face Fulham on Saturday as they aim to continue their run as Premier League leaders, before a tricky FA Cup fixture the following week against Coventry City.

With a lengthy injury list already and ongoing problems taking longer than expected to clear up, Wenger will be disappointed to lose two of his midfield maestros.

“Ramsey and Arteta are both out for this game [Fulham]. Vermaelen too. I personally believe the three will miss the Coventry game as well and will be available after that,” The Frenchman told the club’s official website.

Elsewhere, the narrow victory over Aston Villa also came at a cost, with another duo picking up knocks that also casts doubt over their availability this weekend.

“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,” admitted Wenger.

But admist the bad news that has been threatening to derail Arsenal’s title challenge came a shimmer of hope with regards to two long term absentees; Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain made his return to first team action after a lengthy lay-off with no complications while Theo Walcott‘s surgery was deemed a success.

“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,” Wenger declared.