Wenger Hints at Deadline Day Defensive Signing

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Arsene Wenger has conceded he may have to make a rushed, deadline-day signing to provide cover for the injured Kieran Gibbs. The 23-year-old left-back suffered a thigh injury in the midweek Premier League game against Liverpool and is expected to be out for three weeks.

"I'll see what I can do. It is a thigh strain and that rules him out for the next three weeks. Of course it is a big blow because Gibbs was a big player for us going forward and in the game we want to play it is a shame he is out for three weeks," Wenger said after the game.

The Frenchman's comments rule out any idea of the Gunners relying on present back-up Andre Santos. The 29-year-old Brazilian has failed to establish himself as a first team player at the Emirates since his transfer from Turkish side Fenerbahce in 2011.

Santos has made only 11 appearances for Arsenal this season and has been criticised for an inability to read defensive aspects of the game. And to make matters worse for the defender, he was at fault for Liverpool's second goal on Wednesday evening, when he did not stop England youngster Jordan Henderson from making a late run into Arsenal's penalty box.

Wenger was linked with a move for Southampton youngster Luke Shaw earlier in the season. The 17-year-old is highly rated by the Saints and he has only just signed a long-term contract with the St Mary's club, making any approach an expensive proposition for the Gunners.

The north London club have also been linked to Everton left-back Leighton Baines. However, the 28-year-old is believed to be a long-term target for Sir Alex Ferguson and Manchester United, potentially making any approach again an expensive proposition.

Arsenal fans will be hoping Wenger has a busy transfer deadline day, with rumours suggesting he remains in the market for a striker as well; Barcelona striker David Villa continues to be linked to the Gunners but given the price demanded by the Catalans, a deal is unlikely.

Wenger: Defenders Were Nervous

Meanwhile, Wenger has admitted his back-line were nervous against the Reds, allowing Brendan Rodgers' men to go 2-0 up, at the Emirates, inside an hour.

"... we were nervous defensively. The two goals we have conceded today have shown that we were nervous from the start at the back, but overall we have shown great quality and tremendous spirit. [The defenders are nervous] ...because they want to do well and they want to win games," he said.