Huge Blow For Arsenal Ahead Of Spurs Clash As Podolski’s Ruled Out For 10 Weeks

Arsenal have received a huge injury blow ahead of Sunday’s north London derby against Tottenham with Lukas Podolski ruled out for up to 10 weeks with a hamstring injury.

The German was forced off early in the second half during Tuesday’s win over Fenerbache with a hamstring strain and the initial prognosis was he’d be out for 21 days. However, Arsene Wenger has given an injury update ahead of the Spurs clash and confirmed that the German international’s injury is far worse than first feared and he’s now facing up to 10 weeks on the sidelines.

There is some more positive news in the injury front with the Gunners boss confirming that Aaron Ramsey and Jack Wilshere are both set to be involved this weekend despite picking up knocks against the Turks.

Mikel Arteta is still some weeks away from recovering from a thigh problem but Wenger hopes to have captain Thomas Vermaelen back after the international break.

Speaking to Arsenal.com, Wenger said:

on Aaron Ramsey and Jack Wilshere…

The news is quite positive. They just had bumps and bruises. They will be involved.

on Lukas Podolski…

It is bad news about Lukas Podolski as he will be out for eight to 10 weeks. His hamstring is much more damaged than we thought at the start. It is very disappointing and we have paid a very heavy price for that win [over Fenerbahce]. We have to be patient now.

on the more long-term injuries…

Arteta is doing OK but there are few weeks to go with him. Thomas Vermaelen could be back after the international break.

So it’s mixed news for Arsenal ahead of their crucial clash with fierce rivals Tottenham this weekend. The Gunners fans will be hoping the club can bring in a couple of new faces in time to be involved on Sunday as their squad is looking incredibly thin, but time is running out for boss Arsene Wenger to do his business.

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