• Premier League

Bendtner in line for Arsenal return

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has confirmed that Nicklas Bendtner is set to play his first game for Arsenal since August 2011 in Wednesday's Capital One Cup tie against West Bromwich Albion.

Danish striker Bendtner has been sent out on loan to Sunderland and Juventus in the last two seasons, but he struggled to make an impression with either club and failed to secure a move away from Arsenal over the summer.

Wenger admitted Bendtner "was supposed to leave" the club ahead of the transfer deadline at the start of September, but he is now back in the fold and looks set to replace Olivier Giroud, who is expected to be rested for the trip to the Hawthorns.

"We have a Capital One Cup game at West Bromwich Albion on Wednesday and I will rotate the team, of course. Nicklas Bendtner has a chance to be involved," stated Wenger, in an email sent to Arsenal supporters. "Rotating the squad is important because we play again on Saturday and after that we have a massive home game in the Champions League [against Napoli]. We will need everyone to play their part."

Wenger went on to join the chorus of acclaim for record signing Mesut Ozil, who contributed three more assists in Sunday's Premier League victory against Stoke at the Emirates Stadium.

"When you look at his numbers, the assists are not a coincidence, it's just the reality of his game," he added. "I believe that once he is completely integrated we'll see even more from him. It shows how important the delivery is and Mesut Ozil can provide that.

Wenger also confirmed Jack Wilshere will not play against Albion, after revealing he "was exhausted" following his efforts in Sunday's win.

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