Arsenal midfielder Mikel Arteta has been ruled out of action for a further three months after undergoing an operation on his ankle.

The Spaniard initially picked up the injury back in November and was expected to return in the coming weeks, but significant inflammation and discomfort has led to him undergoing surgery.

Speaking to the club's official website, Gunners boss Arsene Wenger said: "Mikel has had surgery which went well. I have just seen him, he is back with us at the training ground.

"He had a limited mobility in his ankle and some persistent inflammation that had an impact on his calf. That meant we had to make the decision to have surgery and it's a proper solution which gives him the best chance to recover."

Arteta has been restricted to 12 appearances in all competitions for Arsenal this season.