Thierry Henry (calf) faces a fitness test ahead of Sunday's Barclays Premier League clash against Manchester United at Emirates Stadium.
Defender Thomas Vermaelen (calf) is a major doubt, while midfielder Mikel Arteta (calf) is not fit. Strikers Marouane Chamakh and Gervinho are away at the African Nations Cup. Defenders Francis Coquelin (hamstring), Kieran Gibbs (groin), Bacary Sagna (ankle), Carl Jenkinson (back) and Andre Santos (ankle) are all still out, along with midfielders Abou Diaby (hamstring) and Jack Wilshere (ankle).
Manager Arsene Wenger insists games between his side and United remain as fascinating as ever, despite new title contenders emerging. The two clubs have often battled for domestic dominance in recent years, but now find the likes of Manchester City, Tottenham and Chelsea also in the hunt for the Barclays Premier League crown.
However, Wenger told Arsenal Player:
"It's still the same.
"It is not the only game any more because you have Chelsea and Man City coming in, with Liverpool still there. But it is a game that is watched all over the world.
"We do [lift ourselves], we think we are on a similar level. I still think that when we have everybody available we are a strong force in this league. "That's why it is important that we fight very hard not to drop points."
Sir Alex Ferguson is set to welcome back England duo Chris Smalling and Phil Jones for Manchester United. The pair both missed last weekend's win over Bolton after suffering minor injuries in a collision during the Manchester derby. Brazilian midfielder Anderson has been ruled out after suffering a training ground injury, whilst Tom Cleverley (ankle) and Ashley Young (knee) should be back in full training within 10 days.
Ferguson claims there is "no chance" of the spectacular August showdown between Manchester United and Arsenal being repeated when the two sides meet again at the Emirates Stadium on Sunday. United emerged triumphant on that stunning afternoon, romping to an 8-2 win that condemned Arsenal to their biggest defeat in 114 years.
It was part of a blistering start to the campaign that also saw the Premier League champions score three times against both Tottenham and Chelsea and put five past Bolton at the Reebok Stadium. Performances have become rather more restrained since as injuries and setbacks made their mark, which is why Ferguson is anticipating a return to the tense battles of the past when United square up to Wenger's side this weekend.
"It won't be as open as the last time. There is no chance of that," said Ferguson.
"There won't be a lot between the two teams. They have only lost six goals at home this season so we are well aware it is going to be a hard game. I just hope we can get the result we want and need."
Arsenal v Man Utd - view commentary, squad, and statictics of the game live.
Source: DSG
