Arsene Wenger has conceded that Per Mertesacker is unlikely to play again this season, but is pleased with the progress being made by Jack Wilshere.
But Wilshere, Diaby, Santos and Coquelin closing on full fitness
Arsene Wenger has conceded that Per Mertesacker is unlikely to play again this season, but is pleased with the progress being made by Jack Wilshere.
Arsenal's injury problems have eased over recent weeks, but they still have a number of senior stars on the sidelines.
Germany international Mertesacker is among those on the treatment table, with the centre-half having undergone ankle ligament surgery in February.
His rehabilitation is considered to be going well, but Wenger admits there is little chance of the 27-year-old coming back into contention before the end of the campaign.
"I believe Per will be out for the rest of the season," he told the club's
official website.
"Basically there are only six weeks to go so I don't think he'll be sharp enough to come back and play. He would need to train and get back to full fitness."
While Mertesacker looks set to sit out the Gunners' run-in, there is a chance that England midfielder Wilshere could figure - as he is close to finally recovering from a serious ankle problem.
Positive
Wenger added: "Jack's scan was positive. There is no problem, it is normal evolution and he is continuing his progression.
"It's too early to fix a date, though, we go day by day with him."
Andre Santos, Abou Diaby and Francis Coquelin are also closing on full fitness, with Wenger set to welcome all three back into his plans over the coming weeks.
The Arsenal boss added: "Andre played 60 minutes (for the reserves on Wednesday) with no problem. Overall we are getting our players back so that is positive.
"Abou might play in the reserves next week at Liverpool. That game is on Tuesday night.
"Francis is two more weeks away from fitness."
