Nicklas Bendtner set for return next week

For the first time in nearly three months, Nicklas Bendtner may be named in an Arsenal squad when the Gunners visit Villa Park next week Wednesday.

The Dane was last seen limping off before half-time in the derby victory against Tottenham on October 31.

Bendtner was replaced by Eduardo on that day and another injury blow to Van Persie which soon followed, has seen the Croatian manage the task of Arsenal’s main frontman ever since.

The injured duo’s absence have left Arsenal literally ‘short’ in attacking options with midfielders Arshavin, Diaby and Fabregas called upon for goals.

But Arsene Wenger’s side have done well to hang in there during this period and should soon welcome the boost of Nicklas Bendtner’s return in the league match at Aston Villa 10 days from today.

“Nicklas Bendtner should be available for the Villa game on January 27 too” Wenger said.

“He should be back from next week onwards – Monday or Tuesday. Maybe he will not be completely ready for Stoke but, after that, he should be able to be in the squad.”

Wenger also had other gains on the injury front to reveal as fit-again Theo Walcott and Denilson are both likely to feature against Bolton later this week.

“Denilson and Walcott are available for Wednesday night,” the boss said.

“It is a big boost of course because they were out for a while and it gives us some fresh players. Walcott has been unlucky with some small niggling injuries and so it is good to have him back.