Gilberto out until April

Long rehabilitation
The 28-year-old Brazilian international has returned to London from his native country to continue his recovery from fractured vertebrae. The injury has sidelined the FIFA World Cup winner since 18 September - and he is unlikely to be available for action before the last month of the English Premiership season.

Wenger admission
Gilberto is due to undergo further tests with Arsenal's club doctors, but his manager, Arsène Wenger, said mid-April would be the earliest likely date for a comeback. Arsenal are due to play FC Bayern München in the UEFA Champions League first knockout round, but even if they progress, a quarter-final tie - to be concluded on 12/13 April - could come too soon for Gilberto.