Arsene Wenger has acknowledged that the absence of Santi Cazorla in midfield played a big part in Arsenal failing to break down Middlesbrough in Saturday's goalless draw.
The Gunners saw their seven-game winning run in all competitions come to an end at the Emirates Stadium, as they failed to turn their possession into goals.
Cazorla missed the game through injury, which Wenger was unwilling to put a timeframe on, but the Frenchman concedes that the lack of quick passing from defensive midfield into the final third was a key factor in the Boro stalemate.
"You always miss Cazorla at home," he told reporters. "From deep midfield into the final third his pass is always quick, accurate. I don't really know when he will be back. We have to see how he recovers on Monday."
Arsenal ended the day at the top of the Premier League table despite the draw, although Manchester City can move back to the summit should they avoid defeat against Southampton on Sunday afternoon.
Daniel Lewis
