Wenger provides Arsenal injury updates on Mertesacker, Oxlade-Chamberlain and Arteta

ARSENE WENGER says defender Per Mertersacker’s chances of playing against Chelsea this Sunday (4pm) are “50/50”.

Per MertesackerGETTY

Per Mertesacker is rated "50/50" for Arsenal's clash with Chelsea

The centre-half limped off during Arsenal’s FA Cup semi-final victory over Reading last weekend.

He is the only absentee from that game as the Gunners seek to overcome Premier League leaders Chelsea and cut the gap at the top of the table to seven points at the Emirates.

And Wenger revealed that if Mertesacker is unfit to play then January signing Gabriel will start in his place.

“Last week against Reading we had Mertesacker injured,” Wenger said.

“He’s been in the treatment room. I don’t know if he will be available or not.

“Apart from him everybody else should be available.

“(Gabriel) is ready yes. He came on last week and I think if Per is not ready then Gabriel will start.”

Arsenal v Chelsea - Premier League Preview

Arsenal are still missing midfielders in Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain and Mikel Arteta.

And the manager gave quick updates on both players’ fitness.

“He’s still out,” said Wenger of Oxlade-Chamberlain.

“I don’t think he’s been in training. He’s not considered at all.

(Arteta) is getting closer. He’s back in full training. He’s still a bit short, physically, to go into a game of that intensity (against Chelsea).”

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