Giroud expected back for Villa clash

Arsenal expect to have forward Olivier Giroud back from an ankle problem and illness for Monday night’s Barclays Premier League trip to Aston Villa.

England forward Theo Walcott has been ruled out for the rest of the season and the World Cup after suffering knee ligament damage in the FA Cup third-round win over Tottenham.

Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain, fit again following his own serious knee injury, could be back in the squad having played for the Under-21s on Thursday, while fellow midfielder Aaron Ramsey (thigh) and defender Kieran Gibbs (calf) are also closing in on a return. Captain Thomas Vermaelen (knee) is doubtful, while forward Nicklas Bendtner (ankle), Yaya Sanogo (back) and Abou Diaby (knee) continue their rehabilitation.