Arsenal defender Oleksandr Zinchenko is a major doubt for this weekend’s Premier League clash against Crystal Palace.
The Ukraine ace has missed the last two matches with a calf injury and he formed part of Arsenal’s squad for a warm-weather training camp in Dubai.
Zinchenko worked on an individual rehabilitation programme during his time in the United Arab Emirates.
Jakub Kiwior has started the last two matches at left-back but the Pole is more comfortable at centre-back.
But, with Takehiro Tomiyasu at the Asia Cup to represent Japan, Mikel Arteta is light on options at full-back.
Zinchenko had hoped to return in time to face the Eagles but the Evening Standard say he will miss the match as his recovery has been slower than expected.
Arsenal hope to have Gabriel Jesus back in contention, after he missed the FA Cup defeat to Liverpool earlier this month.
The Brazilian has formed part of the training group in Dubai and could go straight back into the starting XI.
Arsenal also looking for a new left back
Centre-back Kiwior has started the last two games with Arsenal light on left-back options due to Takehiro Tomiyasu being at the Asian Cup with Japan.
Jurrien Timber is still out with his knee injury but he is progressing well
And began working with a ball again in Dubai. Arsenal are reluctant to put a date on his return and he will not be rushed back.
Arsenal were flying back from Dubai on Tuesday after their training camp
And they hope to have Gabriel Jesus back in the squad against Palace.
Jesus missed Arsenal’s defeat to Liverpool in the FA Cup third round earlier this month due to a knee issue.
Arsenal were hopeful at the time that the issue it was nothing serious
And the Brazilian has been able to train with the group while out in Dubai.
Thomas Partey, who has been out since October with a thigh injury, is making good progress with his recovery.
Fabio Vieira is still due to be out for a few more weeks after having groin surgery in November.
