Arsenal defender Mikael Silvestre is facing three weeks on the sidelines after suffering a thigh injury in the FA Cup win over Plymouth Argyle.The former Manchester United man limped out of the action at the Emirates Stadium after just 30 minutes on Saturday, with youngster Kieran Gibbs coming on in his place.

Gael Clichy and Kolo Toure both missed the weekend victory over Argyle through injury, with Silvestre's absence giving manager Arsene Wenger an additional defensive headache.

Although Silvestre will now be sidelined until the end of January, Wenger is hoping Clichy will be fit to return against Bolton on Saturday.

"It is a thigh problem," Wenger said. "[He will be out for] Three weeks, 21 days.

"I have to look at it but at the moment with the injuries we are a little bit short everywhere. I hope Kolo will not be out for a very long time because he has an inflamed groin.

"On the left-hand side we are a bit short but Gael Clichy should be back for next week."

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