Wenger concerned by prospect of departures

Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger admitted his concern at the prospect of losing big-name players after seeing his side fire blanks at Newcastle yesterday.

Neither skipper Cesc Fabregas nor fellow midfielder Samir Nasri were involved in the 0-0 draw at St James’ Park during his debutant Gervinho was sent off for slapping Joey Barton as Barcelona and Manchester City continued their respective pursuits.