Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger
has revealed his squad suffered 'heavy losses' during the
international break.
Captain William Gallas (hamstring), right-back Bacary Sagna
(knee) and striker Nicklas Bendtner (ankle) are all unavailable for
Saturday's clash against Everton and Tuesday's UEFA Champions
League trip to Fenerbahce.
Summer signing Mikael Silvestre is set to compete with Johan
Djourou for a starting berth in Gallas' absence as the former
Manchester United defender looks to make his Arsenal bow, while
Emmanuel Eboue should fill in at full-back.
Spain midfielder Cesc Fabregas sustained a suspected broken nose
against Belgium, but Wenger confirmed the schemer should be fit for
the Premier League encounter versus the Toffees.
Wenger told the club's official website: "Unfortunately
we have lost some players over the 10 days: William Gallas
(hamstring), Bacary Sagna (knee) and Nicklas Bendtner (ankle).
"These are heavy losses and we have to compensate them.
Fortunately the three of them don't look to be out for a long, long
time but they will be out for the weekend game and I think the game
on Tuesday.
"As well as them, Djourou got concussion during his game with
Switzerland and will be assessed tomorrow to see if he is
available. He does not look too bad and he could have a good chance
to play.
"I am still waiting for Robin to come back (after international
duty) so I don't know about him. However, he should be okay.
"He went with a muscle problem but he came on after 56 minutes
last night and, from the reports I got, he should be alright. Both
of them will be assessed.
"Also I am told Cesc has a broken nose. It should not stop him
playing. He is here now (at the training ground) and is being
assessed.
"At least Abou Diaby is back in the squad again. Even though he
has not played games he will be used, at least in the squad,
because we have lost those three players."
