Wenger: Walcott doubtful for Barca
Reuters - Friday 25 February 2011, 15:25
LONDON - Arsenal forward Theo Walcott is
likely to miss the Champions League last-16 second leg against
Barcelona because of his ankle injury, manager Arsene Wenger
said on Friday.
The England winger was carried off during the 1-0 win over
Stoke City on Wednesday and is definitely out of the League Cup
final against Birmingham City on Sunday along with skipper Cesc
Fabregas.
GEAR: Up to £10 off Arsenal training range with Kitbag. Free delivery on orders over £50
But while Fabregas has a good chance of being fit for the
return at the Nou Camp on March 8 Wenger fears Walcott could
also miss that game and the FA Cup replay against Leyton Orient
next week.
"Walcott will be out for two to three weeks with an ankle
problem," Wenger told reporters.
"I would say it is very unlikely he will be fit for the
second leg of the Barcelona game.
"I imagine the worst so maybe I will be surprised in a
positive way but I just give you my gut feeling at the moment."
Dutch striker Robin van Persie, who has missed the last two
games through injury, will captain Arsenal on Sunday in the
absence of Fabregas.
"I am delighted he is back," Wenger said. "He is the
vice-captain and will captain the side because the captain
cannot play."