Double injury blow rocks Wenger

Arsenal were hit by a major injury blow today when Arsene Wenger learned that he will be without both Sol Campbell and Gilberto Silva for at least a month.

Arsenal struggled to a 1-1 draw against Panathinaikos in the Champions League last night.

And Campbell's extended absence comes as Wenger's side face a tough programme of matches at revitalised Crystal Palace followed by a clash with north London rivals Tottenham. They then have a Champions League clash against PSV Eindhoven at the end of this month that they now cannot afford to lose.

Campbell, who will also miss England's friendly in Spain, faces a desperate battle to be fit for the clash against PSV in Holland as he tries to recover from an Achilles tendon injury which is worse than first expected.

Gilberto, who has been out since September with a back problem, is sidelined until at least mid-December.

He has been recuperating in Brazil and having regular scans. He is due back in England next week when he will have fresh medical checks.