Although we are yet to get full confirmation on the extent of Cesc Fabregas’ injury, reports stating that the Arsenal skipper will not take the pitch at Fratton Park this evening are mounting. Wenger confirmed yesterday that he remained in the dark concerning the results of the scan carried out on Tuesday and today’s report in the Independent states that results from these tests are still being analysed. However, it then goes on to claim that Fabregas is out of tonight’s game and the FA Cup tie with West Ham at the weekend.

An article in today’s Guardian backs those claims and reinforces the theory that Fabregas will be sidelined for three weeks, missing at least four Premier League games. The article also includes a direct quote from the player who admits he now faces a spell on the sidelines once more…

“Sure, I won’t be able to play for a while but I hope to be fit soon and will return to help the team. It happened as I scored the second goal against Villa: I sprinted [on to Theo Walcott’s pass] and felt a strange tug in the back of my leg. But I’d come off the bench with a lot of desire in that game.”

Those hoping for some double gameweek goodness from Fabregas then, look likely to be disappointed. Elsewhere in the Arsenal ranks, Wenger has revealed that Rosicky could make a return to action this evening following a groin injury. With Denilson thought to be sidelined with a back injury for this evening’s game, Rosicky could well figure. It’s thought that Ramsey will likely come in however, with Diaby and Song making up the midfield trio.

Arsene Wenger has also confirmed that Bendtner was at least another three weeks from fitness. The striker is now suffering groin problems following a hernia operation. The setback could yet see the Arsenal boss in the market for a striker in January, although it also means that Arshavin looks set to maintain his role as a central striker in the coming weeks. At least that’s potentially some good news for us fantasy managers then.