Following an operation on the plantaris tendon in the Spain international's right foot, the Premier League club expected his rehabilitation to take around three months.

However, it is understood Cazorla is not set to recovery in time to be involved again this season.

Gunners boss Arsene Wenger had spoken of the importance of Cazorla to the squad following the news of his injury.

"The dressing room needs a balance between experience and youth-team players and you need to be guided as well by some experienced players as well when you go through difficult times," Wenger said.

"They help you always to keep your feet on the ground and keep focused."