Wenger confirms Ramsey injury blow for Arsenal after Southampton draw

Aaron Ramsey is expected to be out of action for another four to six weeks after suffering an injury setback in Arsenal training this week, Arsene Wenger has confirmed.

The Wales international had been sidelined since Boxing Day with a thigh problem and was left out of the Gunners squad for Tuesday’s trip to Southampton, despite being passed fit by Wenger on Monday.

We took at least a point. It’s not enough but considering the situation at half-time, we have to be content with it

Arsene Wenger

And after the 2-2 draw at St Mary’s on Tuesday, the Arsenal manager confirmed that the 23-year-old is set to for another spell on the sidelines.

“Ramsey is out for longer than we expected,” said Wenger.

“He had a setback yesterday in training. The same muscle. I hope it’s not for too long but certainly not for Sunday’s game [against Crystal Palace].”

The Gunners were held to a draw by a lively Southampton on Tuesday, despite taking a second-half lead when Olivier Giroud and Santi Cazorla overturned the lead the hosts had taken through Jose Fonte.

With Arsenal having led 2-1 for two second-half minutes, Adam Lallana netted an equaliser before Mathieu Flamini was sent off for a two-footed lunge late on.

The draw leaves Arsenal two points clear at the top of the Premier League table, with both Manchester City and Chelsea set to play on Wednesday.

And Wenger added: “They [Arsenal’s title rivals] have difficult games as well and we took at least a point. It’s not enough but considering the situation at half-time, we have to be content with it.”