Arsenal recall Francis Coquelin from Charlton to help ease injury problems

Francis Coquelin: Back at the Emirates

Arsenal have recalled Francis Coquelin from his loan spell at Charlton as their injury problems worsen.

Per Mertesacker is the only recognised centre-half available for Saturday's game against Newcastle, and even stand-ins Nacho Monreal and Calum Chambers are out.

Both those players are full-backs by trade, and Coquelin has played at both right-back and left-back for Arsenal in the past.

The Frenchman has also played as a central midfielder, and Arsene Wenger is also short of players to fill that role with Mikel Arteta, Aaron Ramsey and Jack Wilshere all out.

Coquelin joined Charlton on loan at the start of November and made five Championship appearances.