Not for the first time, Arsenal have been left cursing their luck after an international break that has caused nothing but problems.

Injuries have been an issue at the Emirates all season but with added depth and quality in the ranks, Mikel Arteta has largely been able to navigate his way through the storm . Despite some key absences, his side are four points clear at the summit of English football ahead of Sunday’s north London derby against Tottenham.

But with the final international break now out of the way and a breathless run through the festive period looming large, fresh concerns were waiting for Arteta and his staff in north London this week.

Gabriel Magalhaes didn’t even need to travel to join the walking wounded. The centre-half limped out of Brazil ’s friendly wit

See Full Page