Premier League - Walcott out for a month or more

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has confirmed that winger Theo Walcott will be out for "four to six weeks" with an ankle injury.

The 21-year-old picked up the knock during England's win in Switzerland on Tuesday night. The news comes at a disappointing time for the player and his club after his stunning early season form.

“The tackle looked quite bad. When you see how it turned his ankle I thought it would be three or four days or it would be four to six weeks," said Wenger.

"Unfortunately it will be four to six weeks. We had some good news about the scan because at some stage we were scared it could be worse. But overall it is a question of patience and rehabilitation."

Wenger also confirmed that Robin van Persie will be out for a similar length of time after hurting his ankle against Blackburn two weeks ago.

"At the start we were optimistic. Maybe a bit too much, thinking it would be one or two weeks. But the damage was bigger than expected and it will be four to six weeks,” said Wenger.

The Gunners boss did however have better news about Samir Nasri, who has recovered from knee surgery and who could feature this weekend against Bolton.

“He has had a very good preparation and joins in (training) on Friday. If needed I will integrate him in the squad for Bolton but for sure he will be back for our first Champions League game against Braga,” said Wenger.

Eurosport