Gunners relief as Vermaelen avoids leg break

Arsenal defender Thomas Vermaelen, who was feared to have broken a leg in the club’s goalless draw at Aston Villa, will be back in action shortly after an x-ray revealed that he had not suffered a fracture.

The centreback is doubtful for Sunday’s Premier League clash with Manchester United at the Emirates but the worst-case scenario has been ruled out, Gunners boss Arsene Wenger said Thursday.

“There is no fracture in Thomas’ leg but his injury still has to be assessed,” Wenger said. “There is still a good chance he will not play on Sunday.”

Croatia striker Eduardo will definitely be sidelined against the champions after suffering a hamstring injury at Villa Park but should be available for Chelsea seven days later, Wenger added.

Arsenal will have Emmanuel Eboue and Alex Song available following their return from Africa Cup of Nations duty.

“They are both in good shape, tired but in good shape,” Wenger added. “Both of them are available for Sunday.”