There is some bad news for Arsenal on the injury front, as the England international forward Theo Walcott is still not ready to come back into the team after picking up what was supposed to be just a minor calf problem in the Boxing Day win over West Brom.
According to the sports injury website physioroom.com the date set for his turn to first team action is January 31st, but I am not holding my breath and as the manager is likely to use caution in bringing him back that would not see Theo fully fit and ready for the trip to face Chelsea on February 4th.
However, three Gunners that should be not only fit but match sharp for that potentially pivotal Premier League away game are Francis Coquelin, Hector Bellerin and Kieran Gibbs. The first two of this trio are nailed on starters for a big game like this and going on recent form I would put Gibbs in the side ahead of Monreal as well.
Before that clash with Chelsea Arsenal have two very winnable EPL games at home to Burnley and Watford with the FA cup fourth round in between and these games should give more than enough time for Coquelin, Gibbs and Bellerin to get fully up to speed.
Will this help Arsenal get the result that our title hopes need?
Bob.