Arsenal defender Thomas Vermaelen has suffered a setback in his comeback plans.
Vermaelen's hopes of playing in the Champions League showdown against Barcelona are looking slim after he was ruled out of making his long-awaited return to action.
The Belgium defender has not played since September due to an achilles injury - but it was hoped he could make his return in Tuesday afternoon's behind-closed-doors reserve clash against West Bromwich Albion.
But the 25-year-old central-defender will not feature against the Baggies at the Gunners' London Colney training base, despite making encouraging progress, says the Daily Mail.
Click here for the No1 coverage of all the gossip and transfer news around Arsenal.