Vieira comeback no closer

Vieira was a second-half substitute in Arsenal's defeat to Dynamo Kiev

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has revealed Patrick Vieira is unlikely to return to action before December.

The Gunners captain has been sidelined since aggravating a thigh injury in the Champions League match against Dynbamo Kiev on 21 October.

He originally suffered the injury against Newcastle on 26 September and is struggling to make a full recovery.

And with the French international facing a one-match suspension for his part in the Old Trafford fracas, he may not return until Arsenal's Carling Cup tie with Wolves on 2 December.

"Patrick's injury just needs rest at the moment," Wenger told the club's website.

"However I would say that he is not likely to play until December.

"After 17 November he is suspended for one game, but maybe he could be back for the Wolves game."

Vieira has admitted his frustration at remaining on the sidelines.

He said: "I'm desperate to get this problem rectified once and for all, so I can get back out on the pitch."

The 27-year-old will now see a specialist in France and believes he rushed his original comeback from the injury.

"I came back into the team a bit too quickly, to be honest," Vieira said.

He added: "I felt fit, strong and mentally prepared. It is so frustrating for me because I do not feel like my season has started yet.

"I'm not going to tempt fate by setting myself a date for a comeback, but what I can guarantee is that I will be receiving the best treatment."

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