Arsenal centre-half Johan Djourou has been ruled out of action for up to 6 months after undergoing knee surgery. The Swiss International sustained the injury last month prior to a friendly with Italy.So where does this leave Arsenal?
Having sold Kolo Toure to Manchester City, Djourou would have been confident of staking a claim for a regular place in Arsene Wenger's side. The arrival of Thomas Vermaelen from Ajax probably dispelled those hopes slightly, but with Arsenal also looking to offload Philippe Senderos in the near future, Djourou would have been near the front of Wenger's plans.
With the transfer window now closed, and with only 3 fit central defenders, Arsenal may have a couple of problems, should William Gallas, Vermaelen, or Senderos pick up knocks. It may open the door for a couple of youngsters to make the break through to the first team, or perhaps Wenger may even draft in a replacement on loan, as there is no deadline for loan signings in England.
Whatever the reaction to Djourou's injury, a few questions will be raised of Arsenal's backline. Gallas and Vermaelen have made very impressive starts to the season, in particular the Belgian who has a £10m price tag to live up to. Other teams will be taking note of the Gunner's lack of depth in this department, so it'll be fundamental for them to try and keep Gallas and Vermaelen fit. Alexandre Song is a player who has filled in at centre-half in the past, but you certainly wouldn't rely on him to fill the vacancy on a permanent basis.
A few things to ponder then, for Mr. Wenger.
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