Arsenal news: Laurent Koscielny injury confirmed by Didier Deschamps in France squad announcement

France manager Didier Deschamps has left Laurent Koscielny out of the squad for the forthcoming friendlies against Armenia and Denmark on 9 and 12 October respectively, increasing concerns that his injury will see him miss Arsenal's match with Manchester United on Sunday 4 October.

The 30-year-old centre-back was replaced by Per Mertesacker during the second half of the disappointing Champions league defeat against Olympiacos. Arsene Wenger confirmed post-match that the defender had suffered a hamstring issue, but refused to discuss a project absence time.

The Telegraph later reported the defender would miss the clash with the Premier League leaders and would not return to action until after the international break.

Deschamps has now confirmed what is sure to be a major blow to Wenger, confirming Koscielny will not be in his squad for the forthcoming friendlies.

"Koscielny is not in the squad because he is injured," he said, as quoted by L'equipe.

The France boss has named Liverpool defender Mamadou Sakho as the Arsenal star's replacement, with Chelsea's Kurt Zouma, Manchester City's Eliaquim Mangala and Real Madrid player Raphael Varane completing the heart of his defence.

Arsenal right-back Mathieu Debuchy, who is struggling to secure regular time at the Emirates Stadium this season, is also out of the squad, with Manchester City's Bacary Sagna currently ahead of him in the manager pecking order.

Deschamps has also called up Manchester United starlet Anthony Martial after his impressive start to the Premier League campaign, featuring upfront with Karim Benzema and Olivier Giroud.

"Martial has the potential, but many have been surprised to see him perform with such consistency," Deschamps said. "It was not easy after all the things that were said and written."