Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger has revealed that Theo
Walcott's knee surgery went "very well" but insists it will be
impossible for the England international to recover in time for the World Cup.
The 24-year-old winger suffered a cruciate ligament
injury in the 2-0 win over Tottenham at the beginning of January, with the
early prognosis suggesting that he would be out of action for six months.
Walcott has now gone under the knife in an attempt to
cure the problem and Wenger has confirmed that the operation was successful,
but promptly played down any hope that he could still play a part for England
in Brazil.
"It went very well," the Gunners boss told
reporters. "The damage was real in the knee so he will have to take the
needed time, so let's not be hopeful that he will go to the World Cup - that is
not possible.
"But, overall, his long-term future is very
positive. It's about being fit for next season now."
Wenger also confirmed that Tomas Rosicky underwent
surgery after suffering a broken nose in the 2-1 win over Aston Villa, while
Mikel Arteta, Nicklas Bendtner, Aaron Ramsey and Thomas Vermaelen are all set
to miss Saturday's meeting with Fulham.
"Rosicky had surgery with a general anaesthetic for
a broken nose in two places. With a mask he may be available, but we have to
monitor it closely," the Frenchman added.
"Ramsey and Arteta are both out for this game.
Vermaelen, too. I personally believe the three will miss the Coventry game as
well and will be available after that. Bendtner has a little chance to make
Coventry. But in all probability it will be after that.
"Monreal looks a doubt for Saturday, a big doubt,
because he twisted his foot on the kick. It is not the bruise, he turned and
twisted the ligament."
Culled from Goal
