Theo Walcott is OUT of Manchester United clash after injury setback

Theo Walcott is back on the sideline after picking up a fresh injury on international duty

Theo Walcott will miss Saturday's Premier League showdown against Manchester United after suffering another injury.

The Arsenal forward has only just come back from fitness following a nine month lay-off with a serious knee injury.

But Walcott has now returned from England duty with a groin problem.

Theo is not available for tomorrow's clash, he has a tight groin,' said Wenger.

Walcott's team-mate Danny Welbeck is also a doubt for the game after picking up a hamstring injury whilst on international duty.

Wenger added: 'We will decide of Welbeck is fit after checking on him today.' 

The England winger will miss United clash at the Emirates

Fit-again striker Olivier Giroud can, however, help offer Arsenal 'different options', according to Wenger.

The France international has recovered quicker than expected from a fractured leg suffered when challenging for the ball in the closing stages of the 2-2 draw against Everton on August 23.

Wenger revealed Giroud could even be involved in the game against United at the Emirates Stadium, although the trip to West Brom on November 29 looks a more realistic target.

The Gunners boss is confident when he and Walcott are fully match fit, the Arsenal squad will have even more firepower at their disposal to add to the impressive form of summer signing Alexis Sanchez and former United frontman Welbeck.

Theo on international duty for England during the week

 

'Giroud and Mikel Arteta are both available. It is just a question of how ready they are, but they are available,' said Wenger to the club's website.

'He (Giroud) is three or four weeks ahead of schedule. Originally we planned to have him back for competition at the beginning of next year, so he is one month ahead. 'Wenger added: 'Yes (we relied on Welbeck), and on Sanchez as well, but we have Giroud back, we have Walcott back. Slowly they will integrate into the team again and give us different options.'