Arsenala s Arsene Wenger has revealed the team news ahead of the game against Crystal Palace.
According to the manager, Ramsey would be out for at least 2 more weeks, with Arteta, Debuchy and Diaby being the other long term absentees.
Arsene said, a Ramsey is still out. The two other injuries are Arteta and Debuchy. Apart from that we have some uncertainties about Flamini and Bellerin – they are doubtful for Saturday. Everybody else is OK.a
Arsene gave more details about the injuries to Bellerin and Flamini, with the young right back having a problem with his ankle while the Frenchman has a tight hamstring. However, the manager and the fans would not be unduly worried about the problems facing the two, as there are adequate replacements that can fill their roles now.
Even if Bellerin were to not pass the fitness test, Calum Chambers can more than do a good job at Right Back, as he had been doing at the start of the season. Granted, his performances tailed off towards the middle of the season, but that was more because of fatigue, with even Arsene confessing that Chambers has had to play more games than was planned.
With respect to Flamini, not much will be missed as Coquelin was being preferred to him anyway, but his absence could prove a little detrimental in terms of squad value. With Mikel Arteta still out with his injury, the only other viable defensive midfielder option that Arsenal have as cover for Coquelin is Flamini. Arsenal fans would be hoping that it wasna t anything too serious to worry about, and more importantly, would be praying that no injury befalls Coquelin.
Arsene also expanded on the progress being made by Jack Wilshere.
He said, a Jack is fine. He could be back in the squad because hea s available again. Hea s a bit ahead of schedule and hea s worked hard with no big problems, so ita s good to have him back.a
Arsene also said that Oxlade-Chamberlain was close to fitness and had joined normal training.
Both players could prove to be pivotal in the coming weeks for Arsenal, especially Jack Wilshere, who would be looking to lock down a place in the increasingly populated Arsenal midfield. With Ramsey out for at least 2 more weeks, this is Wilsherea s chance to make that first team place his.
Arsenal fans would be hoping that whichever team starts will kill the game early, and not have another nerve wracking outing.
