Arsenal given defensive boost as Koscielny injury scare is deemed not serious



Arsene Wenger has been handed a much-needed defensive injury boost with the news Laurent Koscielny is not facing a lengthy spell on the sidelines.

The France defender limped out of training on Sunday with an ankle injury and missed Monday's 3-1 win over Nagoya Grampus.

Scare: Koscielny will be fit for the start of the new season to boost Arsenal's defence

Goofing around: Koscielny during a training session in Japan on Sunday

Wenger - who is already without defenders Thomas Vermaelen and Nacho Monreal for the start of the season through injury - was waiting anxiously for news with regards to his central defender's setback.

And the Gunners boss has been boosted by confirmation Koscielny will not miss the start of the season.

The Frenchman, however, is almost certain to miss Friday's friendly against Urawa Reds, the club's final game of their pre-season tour.

Vital: Koscielny's goal in the 1-0 win over Newcastle in May secured Champions League football

And in further good news, Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain (thigh) and Wojciech Szczesny (back) should be available for Friday's clash after missing the victory over Wenger's former club through injury.

As his side arrived in Saitama for the final leg of their Asian tour, Wenger said: 'We are here to prepare for our season so we are ready and sharp for when we go back to England.

'It's been a good opportunity for me to have a good look at the younger players who have travelled with the squad.

'We want to give a good image of our club and Friday will be a big test for us.'

