What Can Arsenal Expect from Johan Djourou?

Arsenal defence has been relatively strong this season despite a few mishaps. Centre halves William Gallas and Thomas Vermaelen have formed a surprisingly dominant partnership, despite only meeting this season. The pair's encouraging performances together have ensured the likes of Philippe Senderos rarely get a run in the Arsenal line up.

Senderos's lack of opportunity meant he was forced to depart on loan to Everton whilst Silvestre has been forced to ponder if he should of left the Gunners in January. Talented Swiss centre half Johan Djourou has sadly sat out of this season with a serious leg injury.

The 23 year old came of age last season and was expected to play a big role in the Arsenal defence before his injury occurred whilst playing for Switzerland. The imposing Swiss's absence has meant Vermaelen and Gallas have had little competition for their places but with Djourou expected to return by the end of the season. What can Arsenal expect from the former Etoile Carouge youth?

With Gallas, Silvestre, and recently promoted veteran Sol Campbell all being over 30, Djourou and Vermaelen will be the youngest of the experienced pair. Senderos future is still under a cloud and many expect him to finally depart the Emirates for good in the summer.

Arsene Wenger also has the likes of Harvard Nodtveit and Kyle Bartley returning from loan. So will Djourou return to the form that blessed him in 2008/2009? At 6'4", the former Birmingham loaner has a dominating presence and is a great asset when both attacking and defending set pieces.

Arsenal lack serious height through out their line up but with Djourou's presence added hopefully a change in tactics from the likes of Stoke could occur, although it's unlikely.

So will Djourou return strongly to form or is Wenger in need of another defended because the Swiss may need a hefty amount of time to recover?