Almunia back in training later this week

Manuel Almunia has been given the all-clear to resume training after recovering from a head injury suffered against Manchester United on Saturday.

The Arsenal keeper got a kick from Michael Carrick midway through the second half as the former West Ham midfielder went for the ball following a corner. After lengthy treatment, Almunia tried to stay on the field but was substituted in the 78th minute. He needed medical checks but has since received the OK.

“He went to hospital [after the game] but he is perfectly alright now,” said Arsène Wenger on Monday lunchtime. “He was in today and should practise either Wednesday or Thursday.”

Almunia’s next game is likely to be the Premier League clash with Aston Villa this weekend. That’s because, speaking ahead of Tuesday’s Fourth Round tie with Wigan, his manager confirmed he’d be sticking with his policy of blooding young players in the Carling Cup.

“You will see 90 per cent of the team who played against Sheffield United in the last round,” said Wenger.

“We will keep faith in our philosophy and we will not change it now. That is very important for the Club. All the young players need to show how good they are.”

Arsenal TV Online subscribers can see the full video interview on Friday morning. In it, Wenger talks about: his considered reaction to the win over Man United, turning around his side’s title bid, the pressure on him ahead of the game, the first-team form of Ramsey, Fabianski and Vela, the continuing emergence of Wilshere and Merida, the English crop coming through, Wigan’s strength this season, his relationship with Steve Bruce and sending out his youngsters on loan.