Wenger, who last week predicted a “worst case scenario of three weeks out” for Fabregas after he tore a hamstring against Aston Villa, now looks set to be without the midfielder for the rest of the month. News of the 22 year-old’s extended absence has been compounded by the departure of Alexandre Song, who yesterday left to join Cameroon at the African Cup of Nations, which leaves Wenger short of regular first team options for Arsenal’s Premier League tie against Bolton tomorrow at the Emirates.

Looking to leap-frog Manchester United to go second in the table it is a crucial tie which could also move Arsenal to within a point of leaders Chelsea. Easing Wenger’s problems however is the potential return of Nicklas Bendtner who has vowed to solve the club’s striking problems.