Arsenal striker Robin van Persie may not be available until the New Year.

The striker last played for Arsenal on October 7 when he struck twice in the 3-2 win over Sunderland at Emirates Stadium. He injured his knee in the international break that followed and has been out of action ever since.

Gunners boss Arsene Wenger said: "It will be two or three more weeks."

The manager said the problem was bigger than first thought, adding: "There is still pain. He is not close, he has no chance at all for next week."