Van Persie ready to return

Arsenal striker Robin van Persie could return from injury in Wednesday's League Cup semi-final against north London rivals Tottenham at the Emirates Stadium.

England forward Theo Walcott is also in the Gunners' squad after missing the FA Cup win away to Burnley with a shoulder problem.

But the Arsenal trio of Kolo Toure, winger Emmanuel Eboue and utility man Alex Song are all away on international duty at the African Nations Cup.

Tottemham too will be without Ivory Coast midfielder Didier Zakora because of the African Nations while Tom Huddlestone will be starting the first of a three-game suspension.

Chris Gunter is cup-tied, Younes Kaboul (ankle) and Darren Bent (knee) are doubtful for the match, while Gareth Bale (foot), Benoit Assou-Ekotto (knee) and Anthony Gardner (ankle) are out.

Chelsea play Everton in Tuesday's first semi-final.