Sunderland v Arsenal | EPL

Arsène Wenger could have Alex Song back in his squad for Saturday's trip to Sunderland.

The Cameroon international suffered a hip injury during the Carling Cup victory over Sheffield United last month and suffered a relapse after making the bench against Hull last weekend. Song may return to action at the Stadium of Light but Abou Diaby (thigh) will not play until after the international break.

"We have no new injuries and we might have Song back in the squad for Sunderland," revealed Wenger at his pre-match press conference. "Diaby is very close now. He is two weeks or one week away. I think after the international break Diaby is ready to play."

The Arsenal manager also gave an update on the Club's two long-term absentees - Eduardo and Tomas Rosicky. The Croatian is expected to return first while Wenger hopes to have his Czech midfielder back before the New Year.

"Eduardo is doing very well but is not close to play," said Wenger. "Eduardo will be OK before Christmas, of course, but Rosicky is a little bit behind him.

"I monitor Rosicky's progress very closely but at the moment it is very difficult to put a date on his comeback. We are not pessimistic about the future of his career but we still need more patience. If he comes back before Christmas we have done very well but I think we can achieve that, that in December he can play again."

Another inconsistent performance by the team.

Thats what teams will do, coz they know we are vulnerable at the back. Opposition, just try & keep it tight at the back then see if they could get a lead in the 2nd half. Thats what we should expect from our future oppositions in EPL except the other big teams. We should be prepared to take the few chances that we get with both hands.

So many crosses from our full backs, but no one tried to charge & get into the box. Adebayor just stands his position. Loads to improve on this front.