Arsenal and France have been boosted by the revelation that Robert Pires may not need surgery on his injured knee and could return to action faster than originally thought.
The Gunners earlier said the midfielder - who has been in sparkling form - was out for the rest of the season and would also miss the World Cup following cruciate ligament damage sustained against Newcastle.
But following a second examination of the knee by Paris specialists, France coach Roger Lemerre explained that an operation might not be necessary.
Lemerre added: 'We are still waiting to find out if he is going to be operated on
or not.
'We don't believe in miracles, but a further medical examination in Paris was not so negative.
'Maybe he already had the ligament damage before the game against Newcastle.
This is where the little hope lies, but his knee has still been affected.
'According to the doctor, Jean Marcel Ferret, he should not be operated on as in an emergency. We should wait for ten to 15 days before making a decision.'
- NEWS
