Thierry Henry will not be allowed to appear for Arsenal reserves on Wednesday afternoon because the club have not yet received the requisite paperwork from New York Red Bulls.
Gunners manager Arsene Wenger was hoping to give Henry a run out during the match with Sunderland's reserve side but is now being prevented from doing so.
The 34-year-old may now make his debut for Arsenal against Leeds United in the FA Cup third round on Monday evening at the Emirates.
The former Barcelona player will join Arsene Wenger's side for a two-month period during the MLS off-season.
