Campbell doubt for Arsenal

Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger fears defensive lynchpin Sol Campbell will be ruled out of next week’s clash against Manchester City.

Campbell twisted his ankle during the latter stages of his side’s 3-1 win at Charlton today and was replaced by Philippe Senderos with six minutes left.

He is already doubtful for next Tuesday’s game at Highbury, when Arsenal must again win to keep up the pressure on leaders Chelsea.

With Pascal Cygan still out with a back injury, 19-year-old Swiss defender Senderos may be plunged into his first Premiership start against City.

Wenger said: “Sol has turned his ankle and I’m scared that he will make our team even younger for the next game.

“Pascal Cygan is back to normal training on Monday but he will still be too short for Tuesday, so if Sol cannot play, then I think it will be Senderos.

“We have four centre-backs – Cygan, Senderos, [Kolo] Toure and Campbell. It’s up to everyone else to decide if they are good enough or not, but I think they are!”

Wenger may at least have right-back Lauren available after a knee injury, although Justin Hoyte performed admirably at The Valley in only his second league start.

“Lauren has a good chance of being back on Tuesday, although I feel that Justin Hoyte did very well,” added Wenger.

The Arsenal boss confirmed Ivory Coast defender Emmanuel Eboue has joined the club from Beveren, but he took a sideswipe at Premier League rules which mean he cannot be involved against City.

With all new signings not eligible until January 5, Wenger declared: “The transfer window is open but the Premier League is closed!”