Arsenal’s preparations for the new Premier League season have been rocked with the news that Nicklas Bendtner has been ruled out of the big kick off.

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The Gunners face Liverpool at Anfield on August 15 but they will do so without their Danish striker as his troublesome groin injury requires a substantial period of rest for it to heal properly.

It will leave manager Arsene Wenger short of options in attack with Robin van Persie not due to return to training until August 5 due to his participation in the World Cup final meaning new signing Marouane Chamakh may be asked to lead the line on his own on Merseyside if the Dutchman is not match fit in time.

Wenger has received better news on midfielders Denilson and Abou Diaby as they are expected to be fit enough to play in the Emirates Cup – a pre-season tournament also featuring AC Milan, Celtic and Lyon.