Ankle blow could delay Sol's return

Sol Campbell’s bid to make his return to the Arsenal side against Bolton this weekend could be hampered by an ankle problem.

The England international resumed training on Monday after taking some extra time off following his disappointing display against West Ham, when he was at fault for the Hammers’ opening two goals and substituted at the break.

Wenger believes there is no better way for the 31-year-old to get back on track than to throw himself into the job at hand. He will monitor Campbell’s progress after the defender is understood to have aggravated an old injury, which has been troubling him for some time.

With the likes of Kolo Toure still on African Nations Cup duty for finalists Ivory Coast, the experience of a fully focused and fit Campbell would be a welcome addition to the Arsenal back line.

Lauren will be out for the rest of the season after the defender underwent knee surgery last week, although youngster Kerrea Gilbert (back) may be in contention again after having to sit out last weekend’s 2-0 win at Birmingham.

“We had a very young side out against Birmingham and it is good for morale to do well like that when you are so young a team,” said Wenger.