Arsenal have been dealt a major blow with the news Robin van Persie will be out for three weeks with a knee injury.
The in-form Dutchman suffered the injury when he netted during the Carling Cup final defeat to Birmingham City at the weekend, and was forced off during the second half at Wembley.
And now, following a scan on the problem, the Gunners have confirmed the length of van Persie’s absence, meaning he will miss the huge second leg of their Champions League showdown with Barcelona and the upcoming FA Cup replay with Leyton Orient.
Manager Arsene Wenger told the club’s official website: “Unfortunately, we had bad news on the scan and he will be out for the next three weeks for sure.
“It could be longer. The shortest delay we can imagine is three weeks, he is definitely out for Barcelona.”
However, there was some positive new on the injury front with Wenger revealing captain Cesc Fabregas could return from a hamstring injury in time to face Barca.
Wenger added: “Cesc is looking possible. He is making quick and good progress. It is possible.”