Van Persie back for Gunners

Arsenal v Wigan

Robin van Persie returned to lead Arsenal in tonight’s Carling Cup quarter-final against Wigan at Emirates Stadium.

The Dutchman had not started since the end of August because of an ankle problem, but joined Theo Walcott, Nicklas Bendtner and Carlos Vela in an attacking Gunners forward line.

Emmanuel Eboue was fit after a knee problem, but captain Cesc Fabregas remained out with a hamstring injury.

Wojciech Szczesny started in goal, with youngster James Shea preferred on the bench to the fit-again Manuel Almunia.

Wigan – beaten at West Ham on Saturday – welcomed back captain Antolin Alcaraz from suspension, but on-loan Manchester United youngster Tom Cleverley was unavailable.