Speaking to the press ahead of the Crystal Palace game, Arsene Wenger had mixed news on the injury front.

He revealed that Hector Bellerin, who has started seven Premier League games for Arsenal, would likely be absent for their short away trip due to an ankle injury.

“We have some uncertainties about Flamini and Bellerin - they are doubtful for Saturday. Bellerin is his ankle and Flamini has a tight hamstring. We’ll see. We’ll have tests on Friday.”

Calum Chambers who played against Middlesbrough last week is expected to act as the stopgap right-back for the Gunners in the event of the Spaniard’s fitness test falling apart. After an impressive outing against the Championship side, he can be expected to be at ease considering the might of the Selhurst Park side.

The Frenchman stated that Aaron Ramsey, Mathieu Debuchy and Mikel Arteta are on their road to recovery with the former Cardiff City midfielder expected to be back for the Everton game next month.

“Ramsey is still out. He is nine days into his three-week rehab. The two other injuries are Arteta and Debuchy.”

He also revealed that Jack Wilshere had no running issues and added that Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain was back at full training after a short term on the sidelines.

“Jack is fine. Alex is close. He will join in normal training today.”

Fellow Champions League spot pursuers in Southampton and Manchester United have relatively tougher fixtures playing Liverpool and Swansea City respectively. A repetition of their opening day result against their Saturday’s opponents will prove to be vital in the race for Champions League berth.