Carl Jenkinson offered Arsenal lifeline?

Arsenal manager Unai Emery has reportedly decided to keep hold of right-back Carl Jenkinson for the campaign following the season-ending injury to Hector Bellerin.

The 26-year-old has been on the fringes of the Gunners first-team this term and he has managed just five appearances - each of those resulting from the cup competitions.

Despite this, The Mirror claims that Emery is prepared to keep hold of the Englishman for the season after having been impressed with the defender's application in training.

The former West Ham United loanee could also feature more regularly during the forthcoming months, considering Bellerin has been confirmed as a long-term injury absentee.

Jenkinson currently has competition with the likes of Ainsley Maitland-Niles and Stephan Lichsteiner for the role on the right side of the Gunners backline.

Maitland-Niles, who was trusted with the role following Bellerin's injury last weekend, is expected to start against Manchester United in the FA Cup fourth round tonight.