Koscielny out for three weeks

Arsenal centre-back Laurent Koscielny faces three weeks on the sidelines after injuring his groin in the 1-1 draw at Everton on Wednesday.

The 27-year-old was replaced after just four minutes by left-back Kieran Gibbs, and joins Abou Diaby, Lukasz Fabianski, Tomas Rosicky and Andre Santos on the treatment table.

“He has a groin strain. That’s usually three weeks,” Gunners manager Arsene Wenger told reporters.

Winger Theo Walcott gave the Gunners the lead after just 51 seconds at Goodison Park but Everton got back into the game through midfielder Marouane Fellaini.

Wenger, who identified Fellaini as a threat ahead of the clash, said that the home side’s direct style of play was a constant threat to the Gunners and felt a share of the spoils was a fair outcome.

“We had a good start and after that I felt Everton came back. Their direct game was always a threat with Fellaini,” he added.

“We have regrets on the goal we conceded but overall, I believe that 1-1 is a fair result.

“It was a game of remarkable intensity. We needed to show great spirit today to get away with a point because they were up for it. Overall I can only say I’m pleased with the effort we have put in the game.”