Can Arsenal Cope With the Absence of Gael Clichy?

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Arsenal's strong form had once again been marred by another injury woe. This time experienced and one of the best left backs in the footballing world Gael Clichy has been hit with a stress fracture on his back.

The same injury occurred last season and it ended the Frenchman's season. However Arsene Wenger believes that his senior defender will be out for a month. Although it is not for the longest period of time, Arsenal will need to ensure the injury doesn't get the better of their left sided defense.

However, Arsenal are known to make and create gifted left backs and as usual with Mr Wenger there are two hugely talented defenders waiting in the ranks eager to get more opportunities.

Kieran Gibbs and Armand Traore.

Kieran Gibbs

The midfielder turned defender showed that it is evident he has a future in the EPL after covering for Clichy late last season. Strong form in a few Premier League games and the League Cup have earnt praise from Wenger saying the 20-year-old is a future left back.

Versatile, fast and strong the youngster has all the ability to be a huge sensation and he will get another chance to show his worth when Arsenal face  Dutch side AZ Alkmaar in the Champions League Group Stage.

Armand Traore

Arrived to the Emirates from Monaco in 2006 and Arsenal fan's were only given glimpses of him in his first two seasons. It was evident he would be another of Wenger's gem's. His strength, height and power allows him to be a strong defender and his speed, balance and quick feet enable him to be a dangerous winger.

Last season we witnessed Traore depart Arsenal and join Portsmouth on loan. He gained valuable experience and proved he can be a threatening attacker and a solid defender.

He played strongly in the League Cup match against West Bromwhich Albion this season but is yet to feature again.

The 20 year old is likely to be the back up to Kieran Gibbs in Clichy absence but we may be lucky enough to see him feature now and then.

So can Arsenal handle Gael Clichy's absence?

The managed well enough last season and their are two reliable defenders hoping to make their mark so it shouldn't be to hard.

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