EPL 2015-16: Arsenal's injury crisis could hamper their title challenge

New Delhi: Premier League giants Arsenal's tryst with injuries has been a major set back for manager Arsene Wenger who has missed the opportunity twice in two weeks to go atop.

Arsenal who lie fourth in the EPL table, lost star performers Alexis Sanchez and Laurent Koscielny in the match against Norwich City last Sunday which they drew 1-1. Reports atate that Santi Cazorla too is set to miss this weekend's clash alongside next week's Champions League encounter against Olympicaos due to a knee injury.

Arsenal's injury-list has been growing as the season progresses and that serves as a matter of concern for Wenger who now will have to look at the January transfer window to inject his side with new faces.

Arsenal have suffered the most injuries this season and the balance in the squad is affecting the team who had picked up just two points in November in the Premier League.

Earlier in November Arsenal lost its most effective defensive midfielder Francis Coquelin who is expected to miss up to three months of action. The midfielder's injury means Arsenal is short in the centre of the park with injuries to Mikel Arteta, Jack Wilshere and Tomas Rosicky.

Forward Danny Welbeck who is yet to feature for Arsenal this season, is expected to return in January. Theo Walcott who was in good form missed the entire of November and is progressing ahead for a return soon.

With December signalling the most hectic period for Premier League fixtures, Arsenal are expected to miss out on most players and will have to bank on their available squad to deliver for them. The Premier League table is really close at the moment with the top six teams being neck to neck with each other.

As it is a crucial phase for collecting points, Arsenal will hope they do not miss out in the race as the balance will shift to their rivals. Wenger has a tricky time ahead and his team are in utter need of some victories which could be a catalyst in marking some good times ahead for the Frenchman.

Arsenal play against Sunderland on December 5 in the Premier League.