Arsenal injury news: Cazorla doubt, Giroud, Ramsey not yet back

Arsenal may be temporarily without Santi Cazorla for tomorrow’s match against Middlesbrough, as the Spaniard suffered a kick on his ankle and Achilles area on Wednesday night. Cazorla was replaced by Mohamed Elneny on the night, and would presumably be replaced by Elneny tomorrow afternoon, as Granit Xhaka begins serving his three-match ban. Losing Cazorla may not be all that bad. It would force Arsène Wenger to rest the 31-year old, who has started every league and Champions League game since the first day of the season.

Arsenal have no injured player returning on Saturday, but Olivier Giroud and Aaron Ramsey are nearing come backs. Giroud could be involved in EFL Cup action on Tuesday, and Ramsey, who is “90% there” could make his return against Sunderland in the league next weekend.

Danny Welbeck remains a long-term absence, but could be back in January, with the next two months dedicated to building his fitness and sharpness.