Wenger targets perfect Christmas season

Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger admits that a Christmas programme which features games against struggling Wolves, QPR and Fulham could define the club's Premier League season.

Arsenal, who face Wolves on Tuesday, are just two points ahead of sixth-place Liverpool but only one behind fourth-place Chelsea.

"We know we have an opportunity to gain a better position on the table. It's down to us to do our job," Wenger said.

"In the Premier League the Christmas period is vital to get your points.

"We have responded well to our defeat at Man City with a win at Aston Villa, so now it's down to us to do the job at home and get the points against Wolves on Tuesday."

Meanwhile, Wenger believes his lack of cover at left-back is worrying - but he is yet to make any enquiry about a short-term replacement.

Wenger was left without a recognised left-back after Kieran Gibbs had surgery on his groin on Thursday.

Gibbs is expected to be out of action for a month and he joins fellow defender Sandro on the sidelines.

Wenger is currently making do with centre-half Thomas Vermaelen at left-back and he admitted he may have to enter the transfer market in the beginning of January.

Wayne Bridge, who has played one match for Manchester city this season, has been mooted as a potential loan target for Arsenal.

"It can only be a short-term solution for us because we have bought Santos, we have Gibbs, we have Vermaelen who can play there, so we do not need a long-term solution," said Wenger. LONDON, Dec 26, 2011, AFP