Ljungberg and Edu set to return for Christmas games

By Richard Clarke

Arsène Wenger hopes to welcome two midfielders back from injury for the Christmas period.

Freddie Ljungberg has missed the last two games with an acute migraine and Edu has been absent since breaking his toe against Everton in the Carling Cup on November 9. Both will miss Sunday’s trip to Portsmouth but should be in contention for the festive games.  

“Freddie’s seen a specialist,” the manager told Arsenal.com on Thursday afternoon. “He is now well and is slowly starting to practice in small sessions. It was only cautious, we have no worries about his health. He should be fit for the Christmas period.

“Edu should be with the Reserves on Tuesday night.”

However there was no change for the other injured players - Jermaine Pennant (hamstring), Pascal Cygan (back) and Gilberto (vertebrae) – but at least Captain Patrick Vieira is available after suspension.

“The rest are still out,” said Wenger. “The only player we have back is Patrick Vieira.”

Arsenal PLUS subscribers can see our exclusive video interview with the manager tomorrow morning. He talks about the Chelsea match, set-pieces, Manuel Almunia, Edu’s situation, the transfer window, the Champions League draw, Portsmouth and getting back to full form.