The Frenchman does already have an enforced rest coming up on September 21 due to a one-match suspension following his red card against Chelsea, while he could face a further ban after being charged with swearing at referee Andy D’Urso.

However, he revealed he needs an urgent rest as he is “unnerved” by his current form despite the team’s encouraging start to the season.

Vieira told the Evening Standard: “I’m not just tired, I’m cooked. I can hardly stand up at times.

“My back hurts, my legs hurt, I hurt everywhere. I am going to see the manager because he must give me some rest.

“I don’t know when or how, but we have to do it quickly because the Champions League is coming and there will also soon be two matches with the French team.”

He is buoyed by his team’s current form and the strength of their squad, with the summer arrival of World Cup winner Gilberto meaning Wenger would not miss his influential captain quite as much as before.

However, Vieira admitted: “I know very well that I am not good at the moment. I know all too well that my performances are up and down.

“My confidence is not affected by these average performances because I know myself very well, but I do feel a bit unnerved by my form.”