With Nicklas Bendtner Injured, Who Should Step Up for Arsenal?

Deja vu?

Arsenal is playing oustanding football and looking like real title challengers when yet another injury comes their way. This time to talented Danish striker Nicklas Bendtner. The lanky Dane sustained the injury during Arsenal's victory over rival-club Tottenham, but now news has it the 21-year-old must have surgery on his groin.

The Denmark international joins the ever growing injury list which currently has Johan Djourou, Lukas Fabianski, Theo Walcott and Gael Clichy on it. This is particulary annoying for Bendtner because he was recently voted Danish player of the year and looks to be finding form this season.

The estimated return for the former FC Copenhagen striker is still unknown.

But as with all injuries, when a door closes another one opens. Bendtner's absence will mean a glorious chance for a young up-and-coming striker. Arsene Wenger currently holds a few talented forwards eager to impress.

Carlos Vela

The little Mexican burst onto the English footballing scene with a superb hat-trick last season in the League Cup. The 20-year-old danced and dazzled during his limited chances with the club. Vela ended the season with six goals and a total of 29 appearances in all competition.

This season, injuries and selection woes have meant Vela has been rarely used. The former Celtico Vigo sharp-shooter is yet to start a game this season but with Bendtner on the sidelines, this could be a huge chance for the tricky Mexican.

Sanchez Watts

Having impressed greatly in the Arsenal reserves and under 18's, many felt this season Sanchez Watts would be sent on loan to gain some valuable experience. However, the Englishman is yet to depart the club and was rewarded with senior debut in the League Cup.

Not only did the 18-year-old score, he showed glimpses of a Thierry Henry-like prospect. The teenager is a quick, strong striker with a fierce finish. He is extremely versatile, able to play as a winger or a sole striker.

He undoubedtly has a huge future and with Bendtner injured could we witness the youngster receive some valuable playing time?

Gilles Sunu

Scoring crucial goals in Arsenal U-18's FA Cup and regular competition success, Frenchman Gilles Sunu showed he is capable of becoming a strong striker for the Gunners.

Sunu is strong in the air and ground, capable of creating play and boasts a lethal finish. The 18-year-old striker earned his first senior cap this season, playing in the League Cup. Although he hasn't featured since, there may a slight chance we see the youngster soon.

The injury is a devastating blow, but Arsenal are easily capable of pulling through. There is also a chance Theo Walcott may receive a run in the middle when he returns from injury.