Santi’s knee blow adds to Arsenal pain

SANTI CAZOrLA has damaged ligaments in his knee, it was claimed last night. The Arsenal midfielder picked up the injury during the 1-1 draw at Norwich on Sunday when he clashed with Gary O’Neil in the second half.

Cazorla had already been ruled out of the Barclays Premier League game against Sunderland on Saturday and next Wednesday’s crucial Champions League showdown with Olympiacos.

The Spaniard could be out for longer, although Arsenal have yet to confirm the exact length of his absence.

Cazorla (below) completed the full 90 minutes against Norwich and Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger did not know whether the 30-year- old had suffered ligament damage or merely a kick on the nerve. Wenger said: ‘The worrying thing was it got worse during the game.’

Arsenal are still assessing star forward Alexis Sanchez, who hobbled off at Carrow road with a hamstring injury.

The Chilean, who had further tests yesterday, is likely to be out for three or four weeks. Arsenal could be without Sanchez for their busy festive schedule which includes a top-of-the-table clash with Manchester City. Wenger will be boosted, however, by the news that Laurent Koscielny could feature against Sunderland. The French defender was substituted in the 11th minute against Norwich after suffering a hip injury, but the damage is not as serious as was initially feared.

Left back Kieran Gibbs is also expected to be fit for Saturday while Theo Walcott, who has missed a month with a calf injury, could be on the bench against Sam Allardyce’s side.

however, there is still a lengthy injury list at the emirates as Wenger is without five other key players.

Mikel Arteta, Francis Coquelin, Tomas rosicky, Jack Wilshere and Danny Welbeck all remain sidelined.