Updated

Arsenal defender Kieran Gibbs will be out until the end of January after undergoing a groin operation.

The 22-year-old has been out of the lineup since October following hernia surgery, and although he was expected to be back for the busy holiday period, a new setback has ruled him out.

Gunners boss Arsene Wenger has now seen his defensive options depleted further as he is already without Johan Djourou, Andre Santos, Carl Jenkinson and Bacary Sagna through injury.

Gibbs has started five Premiership games for Arsenal this season, but his latest setback will keep him out for games with Wolverhampton, QPR, Fulham, Swansea City and Manchester United.