Wenger only wants Walcott to think of recovery
The 24-year-old is set to be sidelined for six months after suffering cruciate ligament damage when making a tackle in the FA Cup third-round win over Tottenham, which shattered his World Cup dream.
Wenger revealed the operation had gone “very well”, now it is a case of focussing on the player’s recovery.
“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,” Wenger. “It is about being fit for next season now.”
As well as having to do without Walcott, the Premier League leaders have plenty of injury concerns ahead of tomorrow’s visit of Fulham.
Czech midfielder Tomas Rosicky could play in a protective mask after surgery to correct a broken nose suffered in the 2-1 win at Aston Villa on Monday night when he was caught by a stray elbow from Gabriel Agbonlahor, but full-back Nacho Monreal is a major doubt after twisting a ligament in his foot.
Captain Thomas Vermaelen (knee) is also sidelined, along with midfield duo Mikel Arteta (calf) and Aaron Ramsey (thigh). Striker Nicklas Bendtner could return from his ankle injury in the FA Cup tie against Coventry next Friday night.
Despite plenty of fitness concerns, Wenger still feels his squad has enough strength in depth, particularly in midfield, as the Gunners look to hold off Manchester City and Chelsea in the title race.
Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain, Kieran Gibbs and Lukas Podolski have all recently returned to fitness, boosting Wenger’s options.
Following injury to Walcott, Arsenal are expected to move for some offensive cover during the transfer window.
Auxerre forward Paul-Georges Ntep has been touted as a potential target, along with Schalke’s German forward Julian Draxler, who is said to have a £37million buy-out clause.
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