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Wilshere set for prolonged absence

Arsenal FC have learned that Jack Wilshere's ankle injury will keep him out for another two to three months, meaning he will miss the majority of the UEFA Champions League group stage.

Jack Wilshere will be out for the next two to three months
Jack Wilshere will be out for the next two to three months ©Getty Images

Arsenal FC have been dealt a blow with the news that midfielder Jack Wilshere will remain out for the next two to three months with the ankle injury he first sustained in June.

The England youngster, 19, picked up the problem on international duty at the end of last term and experienced a recurrence in Arsenal's pre-season friendly against New York Red Bulls on 31 July. He then suffered a setback in training but was expected to make a relatively swift return to action – only to now be sidelined for as many as five of the Gunners' UEFA Champions League group stage games.

"He will be out for a couple more months," said an Arsenal spokesman. "He needs to rest and then we will see where he's at." Arsène Wenger's men begin their Group F campaign at Borussia Dortmund on 13 September.

The news will also come as a blow to England manager Fabio Capello, who had hoped to have Wilshere back for his team's final UEFA EURO 2012 qualifier away against Montenegro on 7 October.

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