Thomas Vermaelen is expected to make his Arsenal debut in Saturday's Premier League opener at Everton after recovering from a groin problem.

The Belgian defender is in line to play in the evening clash at Goodison Park (kick-off 5.30pm).

Midfielder Abou Diaby (groin), England forward Theo Walcott (back) and defender Johan Djourou (knee) have all been ruled out.

Reserve goalkeeper Lukasz Fabianski (knee), Czech international Tomas Rosicky (hamstring) and France winger Samir Nasri (broken leg) are all sidelined.

Arsenal (from): Almunia, Sagna, Vermaelen, Gallas, Clichy, Eboue, Song, Fabregas, Arshavin, van Persie, Eduardo, Mannone, Bendtner, Denilson, Ramsey, Wilshere, Gibbs, Silvestre.