Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has revealed that Theo Walcott could "optimistically" return to action in three weeks.

The England international underwent surgery following an abdomen complaint ahead of last weekend's 3-1 victory over Stoke City.

While Wenger is hoping that the 24-year-old could bounce back earlier than planned, the Frenchman has stated in a news conference that a five-week layoff is a more realistic assessment.

Wenger has also claimed that he expects Santi Cazorla to return to action from an ankle injury after next month's international break.