Arsene Wenger: Mesut Ozil will return to action imminently

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger expects to see Mesut Ozil back in the starting line-up soon after missing the last two matches.

The German was out injured for the past week but may be fit for the weekend’s FA Cup clash with Tottenham, but Wenger confirmed that he is definitely fit for the following week’s Premier League game against Aston Villa.

Wenger will take no risks with Ozil’s fitness ahead of the North London derby but he could still feature at some point.

“The specialist thinks Ozil could be ready for Saturday. It is no big damage, just the pain now,” said the French manager.

“I believe he will be short for Saturday and should be ready for Aston Villa.”

Nicklas Bendtner was added to Arsenal’s long list of injuries yesterday as he sustained an ankle injury scoring the opening goal against Cardiff City at the Emirates, during the Gunners’ 2-0 win.

Wenger revealed the Danish striker will be out ‘for weeks’. Bendtner’s contract expires in the summer so he is entitled to talk to other clubs but Wenger is hopeful he will stay at the club.

He said: “We cannot stop him [talking to clubs] but he says he wants to stay here. If he is focused on staying with us and his job, he is a great striker.”