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Arsenal are facing a defensive injury crisis, with manager Arsene Wenger confirming that first-choice right back Mathieu Debuchy will be out for a considerable period.
The Frenchman suffered ankle ligament damage in Saturday’s 2-2 draw against Manchester City, and is joined on the sidelines by left-back Nacho Monreal (back) and versatile defender Calum Chambers, who is suffering from tonsillitis.
With Debuchy definitely out and Chambers rated at only 50-50 for tomorrow’s clash against Borussia Dortmund, Wenger may be forced to start 19-year-old right-back Hector Bellerin, who has a sole Capital One Cup appearance to his name for the club.
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Wenger did not confirm how long Debuchy would be out for, but it is expected to be a period of two to three months, and the Arsenal boss said: "Monreal didn't travel and we have a little problem with Chambers but he should be alright.
"Debuchy is out for a longer period - we don't know how long - and Yaya Sanogo stayed at home with a hamstring problem."
Wenger attempted to put a brave face on the injury setbacks, but admitted the Gunners could not afford many more.
He added: "The Debuchy injury puts us in a position where we do not want more (injuries). Chambers can play in different positions.
“Monreal can play centre-back and we have as well Bellerin, who I think is now ready to play.”
Wenger also said he hoped Monreal would be back for Saturday’s trip to Aston Villa.
