/world sport
(CNN) -- Arsenal's hopes of winning silverware suffered an injury setback with central defender William Gallas ruled out for the remainder of the season on Thursday.
Gallas clutches his leg after sustaining a knee ligament injury against Villarreal on Tuesday.
Gallas suffered damage to his medial knee ligament during the 1-1 Champions League draw at Villarreal on Tuesday.
Goalkeeper Manuel Almunia will also be out for three weeks after damaging his ankle in the match in Spain, while manager Arsene Wenger revealed left-back Gael Clichy will miss two weeks with a back problem.
Arsenal entertain Villarreal in the home league of the quarterfinal tie and will go through with a win or goalless draw, but the absence of French international Gallas could prove significant.
Arsenal, who are fourth in the Premier League, are also in the semifinals of the English FA Cup and face a busy end to the season.
Strikers Robin van Persie and Eduardo will need fitness tests ahead of Saturday's match at Wigan, while former Manchester United defender Mikael Silvestre has recovered from calf and thigh injuries and will be able to return to bolster the Arsenal defense after being sidelined for several weeks.
Gallas has been in outstanding form in Arsenal's fine run which has seen them cement the final qualifying spot for the Champions League and advance in two cup competitions.
He was stripped of the captaincy earlier this season after revealing tensions within the Arsenal dressing room, but has responded by finding his best form.
| Most Viewed | Most Emailed |
From the Blogs: 
Sit tight, we're getting to the good stuff
