Arsenal remain hopeful that Thomas Vermaelen could
be fit to feature for the Gunners in their first-leg tie with Barcelona.
It was revealed this week that the Belgian has been forced to undergo a “procedure” to cure a long-standing Achillies injury, which has kept him on the sidelines since August.
Although initial suggestions were that Vermaelen would be sidelined for six weeks, Wenger feels, if all goes well with his recovery, the defender may be back in a month.
That would mean that the 25-year-old could be back in the Gunners squad by mid-February – with Arsenal’s home clash with Barca due to take place on February 16.
Wenger stated: “Let’s count the weeks to Barcelona and you will know. I count a minimum of four weeks, maximum six, so it is not an unrealistic target.”