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Arsenal face defensive crisis ahead of FA Cup final next weekend

Gabriel is stretchered off injured during the English Premier League football match between Arsenal and Everton at the Emirates Stadium
Image: Gabriel is stretchered off against Everton at the Emirates

Arsenal face a worrying few days to discover whether defender Gabriel will be fit to face Chelsea in next weekend's FA Cup final.

The Brazilian was stretchered off the pitch, early in the second half, after being injured in a tackle with Everton's Enner Valencia.

Gabriel was clutching his knee on the turf and his absence at Wembley next Saturday would be a massive blow for the Gunners' defence.

Red card for Laurent Koscielny on Sunday
Image: Red card for Laurent Koscielny on Sunday

Arsene Wenger's squad is already without Laurent Koscielny for the showpiece occasion after the Frenchman was shown a red card after 14 minutes at the Emirates.

Koscielny slid in, studs up, on Valencia and referee Michael Oliver had little choice but to send him off.

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Arsenal 3-1 Everton

Unless Arsenal successfully appeal the decision, Koscielny will miss the game with Chelsea.

Although Arsenal beat the Toffees 3-1, they finished the season outside of the Champions League positions in fifth spot.

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They will now play in next season's Europa League, missing out on the top tier of European football for the first time in 20 years.

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