Arsene Wenger has confirmed that Francis Coquelin will be out for at least two months after suffering a knee injury during Arsenal's 2-1 defeat to West Brom on Saturday.
The news is a major blow for the Gunners - Coquelin has become a key component of Arsenal's midfield - but Wenger believes Calum Chambers could deputise for the injured Frenchman if required.
This is according to the Mirror's Darren Lewis, who attended Wenger's pre-match press conference on Monday afternoon ahead of Tuesday night's Champions League group stage clash against Dinamo Zagreb.
SUBMIT AN ARTICLE
Apply to become a GMS writer by signing up and submitting a 250-word test article: https://gms.to/haveyoursay5
"We have players that can play in [Coquelin's] position," Wenger commented, before adding: "Chambers has been educated in that position."
Wenger also confirmed that Mathieu Flamini, who replaced substitute Mikel Arteta against the Baggies at the weekend, will be considered as a back-up option during Coquelin's absence.
It could be a masterstroke...
Chambers is a centre-back by trade - although he is also capable of playing as a right full-back - but appears to possess the technical qualities required to play as a holding midfielder.
The England international turns 21 in January and may not be deployed in midfield for some of Arsenal's tougher fixtures over the next couple of months - the Gunners go head-to-head with Manchester City, Liverpool and Chelsea during December and January - but could get his first Premier League run out in Coquelin's position against Norwich City at the weekend.
Arsenal fans react to the news
Here's how Arsenal supporters on Twitter have reacted to the news involving Chambers…
Arsenal fans: would Calum Chambers in defensive midfield be a masterstroke or a disaster? Have your say by leaving a comment in the box below!
Do YOU want to write for GiveMeSport? Get started today by signing-up and submitting an article HERE: https://www.givemesport.com/writeforgms
