Arsenal defender Shkodran Mustafi ruled out for at least a month

Arsenal defender Shkodran Mustafi has been ruled out of action for up to six weeks after sustaining a thigh injury on international duty.

During Germany's World Cup qualifier with Azerbaijan, Mustafi pulled up with the problem and needed to be helped off the pitch, and it was immediately suggested by coach Joachim Low that the 25-year-old would miss a prolonged period.

At his pre-match press conference ahead of the trip to Watford, manager Arsene Wenger has now revealed that the centre-back could be missing until the end of November.

Wenger gave a prognosis of four to six weeks out, meaning that Mustafi could return after the next international break, but the Gunners boss will be keen to ensure that Mustafi is available for the Christmas period.

The former Schalke 04 man has made six appearances in all competitions during the current campaign.