Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger has a dressing room of walking wounded ahead of Saturday's early season-decider against Manchester United. Mikael Silvestre could miss facing his old club with a suspected broken nose. Losing the experienced defender would be a massive blow for The Gunners, who conceded two draws and a defeat in their last three games, while captain William Gallas is yet to return from injury, Theo Walcott and Bacary Sagna remain doubtful and Emmanuel Adebayor is out for three weeks.

Wenger has confirmed Silvestre's nose may be broken: "We will do further scans tomorrow [Thursday] in order to assess him.

"We do not know yet if his nose is broken but he is a doubt for Saturday's game.

"We have to prepare for a very important game against Manchester United. A good result is vital for us and we are ready."