Arsenal have been hit with the blow that their French striker Olivier Giroud is almost certain to miss the upcoming North London Derby (NLD) with Tottenham Hotspur at the Emirates Stadium.

Giroud picked up a thigh injury while on international duty prompting him to sit out the exciting friendly match against Germany in Cologne on Tuesday night.

His participation in Saturday’s NLD in the league was put in doubt by Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger while giving his injury update ahead of the huge game.

The Frenchman said: “Giroud picked up an injury.”

“I don’t think he will be available.

“It’s short-term, we have to assess him again on Monday.” he added.

Previous injury absentees like Shkrodan Mustafi and Danny Welbeck might feature but they will have to pass a late fitness test on Friday.

The Arsenal manager gave an update on them as follows: “They have to be checked.”

“Mustafi will have a final check tomorrow, Welbeck as well.” he added.

One positive news that the Gunners can hold on to amidst the uncertainties on their players’ fitness is that Calum Chambers has been declared fit for the game after an injury-ravaged start to the season and will provide cover for the team in defence.