Arsenal Faces Setback as Key Player Tomiyasu Suffers Calf Strain, Set to Miss Crucial Fixtures

Arsenal has been hit with a setback as versatile player Takehiro Tomiyasu is expected to be sidelined for a minimum of three to four weeks due to a calf strain, according to reports.

The Daily Mail has revealed that Tomiyasu's absence will extend through the Christmas period, causing him to miss crucial upcoming matches for the Gunners. The team is scheduled to face Aston Villa on Saturday (December 9) and has subsequent fixtures against Brighton & Hove Albion, Liverpool, and West Ham United.

The Japanese defender limped off during Arsenal's 2-1 victory against Wolverhampton Wanderers last Saturday and was notably absent from Mikel Arteta's side during their remarkable 4-3 win over Luton Town last night.

Arteta provided an update on Tomiyasu's injury after the game, stating (according to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano), "We had a scan and it's not good news for Take, unfortunately. He's got a calf injury, and he's going to be out for an extended period."

It is now uncertain whether Tomiyasu will be able to play for Arsenal before the Asia Cup, which commences on January 12. The Japanese international is slated to participate in that international tournament.

Despite the setback, Arsenal has welcomed back Ben White to their lineup, and the English defender will play a crucial role in helping address the defensive situation. White contributed to the team's victory away at Luton.

While Arteta's men have opened up a five-point lead over second-placed Liverpool in the Premier League table, they will have to navigate the festive period without the services of their versatile defender.