Arsenal vs Wigan Athletic preview - Gibbs may make Arsenal return

Posted Monday, April 16, 2012 by PA

Full-back Kieran Gibbs has a 50-50 chance of returning from a groin against Wigan.

Midfielder Gervinho (ankle) is also likely to be back while midfielders Abou Diaby and Francis Coquelin (both hamstring) are set to return to the squad next week for full training.

Per Mertesacker is continuing his rehabilitation in Germany after suffering an ankle injury against Sunderland in February and fellow defender Laurent Koscielny is suspended.

Boss Arsene Wenger believes Yossi Benayoun is ready to play a key part as they chase Champions League qualification in the vital last weeks of the season.

The Israeli midfielder has made 16 league appearances for Arsenal and scored two goals in a season in which he has been hampered by injury.

Wenger, however, has seen signs the creative playmaker, on a season-long loan from Chelsea, is back to his best.

Wenger said: "He has been very patient and very professional.

"He came here with lack of competition and it took him a while to become really sharp.

"He kept working and waited for his place. We kept faith in him and put him in for big games because he is an intelligent and talented player. He has a good team attitude.

"The problem with Yossi was more physical because he is a guy who plays on his sharpness and quick movement.

"He had a big injury don't forget and it took him some time to come back. After that, when you do not play big games it takes you time to find the confidence again. Now he is there."

Striker Hugo Rodallega is Wigan's only injury concern.

Rodallega has not played for the Latics since March 11 due to a knee problem but is back in training and will be assessed before the trip to north London.

"We need to assess him over the next two or three days to see how he responds, but he has been training with the group," said manager Roberto Martinez.

"He is not at 100% yet and he is the only one where there is a question mark about whether or not he will be available for Monday. Everyone else is fully fit and the squad is as strong as ever."