Huge blow for Arsenal as Gabriel Martinelli ruled out for significant period with hamstring injury in dismal Carabao Cup loss to Newcastle

Martinelli was forced off during Arsenal's 2-0 Carabao Cup semi-final second-leg defeat to Newcastle in midweek. Now, The Athleticstates the 23-year-old could be out for at least four weeks with this hamstring issue.

Arsenal already have a depleted attack as Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Jesus are long-term absentees. The Gunners also tried and failed to sign a forward in January, so to lose Martinelli is really rubbing salt into the wound.

Martinelli will now miss Arsenal's upcoming Premier League games against Leicester, West Ham and Nottingham Forest, and would be doubtful to face Manchester United and Chelsea over the next five weeks or so.

It remains to be seen when the Brazilian will return to Arsenal's side, with the forward potentially missing their last 16 Champions League tie, too.