Gallas could miss rest of season

02 April 2010 13:47

William Gallas looks set to miss the rest of the season after the defender suffered a recurrence of his calf problem, manager Arsene Wenger has confirmed.

It is another blow for the Gunners, who lost captain Cesc Fabregas to a broken leg during the Champions League quarter-final first leg against Barcelona on Wednesday night.

Wenger said: "Gallas is longer than three weeks, I would say five weeks."

Gallas, who is out of contract at the end of the current campaign, had been somewhat rushed back from missing eight games with a calf problem.

However, after being unable to finish the Barcelona game, Wenger confirmed the French centre-back was unlikely to recover in time to play again this season.

The Gunners boss added: "It was a gamble which did not pay off and was a mistake, yes.

"He could be back maybe quicker, but I just give myself five weeks because three weeks is a minimum and we will have to be a bit more cautious with him.

"So when we go to the Champions League final, he still has a chance to play."

The Arsenal manager, however, expects Russian midfielder Andrey Arshavin to be available again by the visit of Manchester City on April 24.

Defender Gael Clichy (back) and midfielder Denilson (groin) have both been passed fit for Saturday's home game against Wolves.

Source: PA