Wenger all but rules out signing a defender

Arsene Wenger is confident Sebastien Squillaci's return to fitness can solve Arsenal's central defensive crisis.

The manager told his lunch time press conference that the north London club are not yet ready to sign a new defender.

Squillaci returns to the squad for the first time since the Leeds United game at the Grove three weeks ago.

Wenger said:

"'If we don't sign anyone it won't be a missed opportunity."

The manager who said Thomas Vermaelen is six weeks away from a return said that Alex Song can cover if any of his first choice central defenders get injured.

Wenger added:

"'We can cope with that."

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