Arsenal have confirmed that they will be unable to call on midfielder Abou Diaby for the remainder of the season due to a knee injury.

The 26-year-old, who tore his anterior cruciate ligament in his left knee during a training session yesterday, is expected to be sidelined for eight to nine months.

A statement on the club's official website said: "Following consultations with specialists, Abou will undergo surgery to repair the injury in the near future.

"The thoughts and best wishes from everyone at Arsenal are with Abou, and we all wish him a successful recovery."

Meanwhile, fellow midfielder Jack Wilshere remains out of action for a reported further two weeks with an ankle problem.