Arsene Wenger could be facing a defensive injury crisis after Laurent Koscielny limped out of training during Arsenal’s pre-season Asian tour in Japan, Metro reports.

The France international, whose brilliant end-of-season form was instrumental in helping the Gunners clinch the last Champions League qualifying spot, pulled up with an apparent ankle problem at the Mizuno Rugby Stadium in Nagoya.

Arsenal have yet to reveal the extent of the injury but anything serious would leave Gunners boss Arsene Wenger seriously short of central defensive options.

With Sebastien Squillaci released, Johan Djourou off on a season-long loan to Hamburg and club captain Vermaelen out for three months with a back injury, Per Mertesacker is the only experienced centre-half at manager Wenger’s disposal.

Arsenal have previously been linked with a move for Swansea central defender Ashley Williams, and a serious injury to Koscielny could hasten any bid for the Wales international.

Williams is valued at around £10million by the Swans.

In Koscielny’s expected absence tomorrow, Mertesacker will likely be partnered by 20-year-old Spaniard Ignasi Miquel.