This is one of the worst injury crises Wenger has ever faced. After the 2-0 win against a doughty Stoke side, Arsene Wenger had 12 players injured, a quarter of which are forwards.

The likes of Johan Djourou, Robin van Persie, Kieran Gibbs, and Tomas Rosicky look set for a lengthy spell on the sidelines whilst Abou Diaby, Theo Walcott, Gael Clichy, Nicklas Bendtner, and Eduardo Da Silva are all a few weeks away.

Currently Wenger is being forced to play his little Russian magician Andrei Arshavin as a center forward. Although the Russian was impressive during (and scored in) the 2-0 win over Tony Pulis' Stoke City, reinforcements are badly needed, which Wenger, for once, has accepted.

Rumour has it that Wenger may make a surprise bid for talented West Ham striker Carlton Cole during the January transfer window.

Cole would be a superb option to cover the current Arsenal injury woes. Cole is a strong, imposing striker who has good aerial ability and a fierce shot. The 26-year-old would fit into the Arsenal formation easily due to his versatility and ability to play as a lone striker.

The England international has experience and is currently in top form with a stunning seven goals in 13 games so far this campaign.

A bid of around £12-£15 million would prove extremely tempting for Gianfranco Zola. The West Ham manager would not be keen to lose his talented frontman, but a big offer may make the Italian to allow Cole to depart.