Arsenal star out for eight weeks after knee surgery

Arsenal defender Ben White will be sidelined for around eight weeks after undergoing a keyhole surgery in his knee.

The England international has been carrying a knee issue for the last 18 months and he has now undergone a minor procedure.

The Gunners previously managed him with pain-killer injections, but the operation was made to avoid potential long-term setbacks.

White's absence is likely to coincide with the return of Takehiro Tomiyasu. Riccardo Calafiori is also anticipated to recover from a knee issue.

Calafiori could start at left-back shortly after the international break with one of Tomiyasu or Jurrien Timber featuring in the right-back position.

Timber is likely to fill White's void, considering Tomiyasu has played just one competitive game for the Gunners since the start of pre-season.

The Japanese has already suffered a setback in his recovery from a knee problem and he may not be rushed back to regular first-team action.

Arsenal host Nottingham Forest in the Premier League next week.