Arsene Wenger has said that he hopes Pires would return in November, but the player himself has recently expressed hope that he might make it back in time to play his countrymen in the home game against Auxerre in 8 days time.

We'd have thought he'd have to play tomorrow in order to achieve that ambition, but even if he does it seems unlikely that he'll play Auxerre. Pires injury was very serioues (he hasn't played since March 23rd), and Wenger is unlikely to hurry him back unless he is sorely needed. Our midfield has not being looking too lightweight recently, even with Bergkamp and Parlour out.