It is being reported that Thomas Vermaelen has undergone surgery on his left ankle and faces a significant spell on the sidelines.

The Belgian picked up a knock in Arsenal’s 2-1 win away at Udinese and while Arsene Wenger said he ‘should be all right’ for the game at Old Trafford, it has emerged the problem is more serious.

Vermaelen made just 5 appearances last season as an Achilles problem ruled him out from August until May, and there will be fears that an issue with the same ankle could make things more problematic. He is expected to be out of action for at least 2 months.

It’s more bad news for Arsene Wenger after seeing Jack Wilshere ruled out for 2-3 months, also with an ankle injury.

It should be noted that the reports are, as yet, unconfirmed, but as this is Arsenal, as sure as night follows day and Na$ri is a cunt, it’s probably spot on.