Arsenal have revealed that centre-back Thomas Vermaelen has been ruled out until the new year with an Achilles tendon injury.

Arsenal’s captain Cesc Fabregas is targeting a return to action in next week’s top-of-the-table clash against Manchester United.

Arsene Wenger has confirmed Robin van Persie will play against Wigan in the Carling Cup while Emmanuel Eboue is also back in the squad.

Arsenal midfielder Aaron Ramsey has joined Nottingham Forest on loan until January 3 in a bid to gain match fitness.

Arsenal will be without Cesc Fabregas and Emmanuel Eboue for the trip to Villa Park, but Manuel Almunia returns to the fold.

Gael Clichy is out of Arsenal’s Champions League clash with Braga with a minor back problem, so England star Kieran Gibbs will fill in.

Tom Cruise has been challenged by Arsene Wenger to turn himself into a Premier League player whilst on loan at Carlisle.

Arsenal striker Marouane Chamakh says a win over Braga on Tuesday night would put the memory of the Spurs defeat behind them.

Arsene Wenger has defender Lauren Koscieiny available for the clash against Spurs after he served a two-match ban.

Gael Clichy’s agent has dismissed the speculation linking the Arsenal defender with a summer switch to Juventus.