Arsenal could be left to count the cost of this week's international fixtures as three players may return to the club with injuries. Both Robin van Persie and Abou Diaby were forced to pull out of the Holland and France squads respectively, while Nicklas Bendtner left the field with a knee injury just 20 minutes into Denmark's 3-0 win over Malta on Saturday.
"We have to wait and see how the situation develops," said Denmark's team doctor Soeren Kaalund of Bendtner, who is a doubt for his country's World Cup qualifier against Albania. "Only time will tell if we will be ready in time."
Meanwhile, France have been forced to draft in Rio Mavuba to cover for Diaby, who withdrew with a hip problem. However, it is the injury to Van Persie that could present the biggest problem to Arsenal. The striker, who has been integral for Arsenal despite being sidelined for much of the season, sustained the injury during Holland's 3-0 win over Scotland on Saturday. While the victory leaves Holland top of Group Nine with 12 points from four matches, it could present Arsenal with problems as they attempt to qualify for the Champions League.
It is that qualifying push that could determine Van Persie's future, after he told Arsenal he is ready to sign a new deal there if they can match his trophy-winning ambitions. The Dutchman confirmed discussions about a new deal are continuing but is adamant his future will not be decided by the amount of money on offer. Van Persie has reportedly been stalling over a new three-year, £80,000-a-week deal - with Barcelona understood to be monitoring his situation.
But with less than 18 months remaining on his current contract, he hinted that Arsenal need only to splash out in the transfer market to convince him his future lies in north London.
"I'm still in negotiations with Arsenal, and it's going well and in a very positive atmosphere," said Van Persie. "There are further meetings planned. Financially Arsenal's last offer is fine, but that isn't everything for me. It's about my ambitions and how they can be fulfilled.
"The club and I want the same, and it's our intention to achieve that. We have all the other factors in place - fantastic stadium, dedicated support and money in the bank. Now it's about making that final push. In the last four years, I've only won one prize, the FA Cup - and that is too little. I want to push through to achieve more. That is something I feel in my mind and my body. It's difficult to explain, but I certainly feel I can play an important role in taking Arsenal to a higher level."
