Arsenal have confirmed Jack Wilshere will undergo an operation on a hairline fracture in his left leg which is likely to lead to the midfielder being out of action for three months.
Arsène Wenger last week said Wilshere had suffered a “little setback” in his scheduled recovery from the injury sustained in pre-season. Following further medical examinations, the decision has now been taken that an operation is needed to properly correct the problem.
“Due to a slow healing response from a fracture suffered in August, the club can confirm that Jack Wilshere is to undergo an operation to his left fibula,” read an official Arsenal statement. “The decision to intervene has been taken quickly after regular reviews by specialists, who feel that Jack’s scans show that the healing process is not progressing as well as expected.
“Jack will have surgery in London in the forthcoming days. This will involve inserting a small plate in his left fibula. Jack is likely to be out for approximately three months. Everyone at the club wishes Jack well with his rehabilitation.”
The news will come as a blow to both the player – who has battled through a string of fitness issues in recent seasons – and club, with forward Danny Welbeck also set for an extended spell on the sidelines until at least Christmas following knee surgery.
Arsenal travel to Croatia for their Champions League opener against Dinamo Zagreb on the back of a 2-0 home win over Stoke which sustained their recovery in the Premier League. Theo Walcott, who once scored a hat-trick playing for England at the Maksimir Stadium, is pressing for another start after scoring the opening goal on Saturday.
Per Mertesacker is not expected to be involved having just recovered from a virus and also being involved in a minor road traffic accident on Monday.
