Olivier Giroud will miss Arsenal's Premier League trip to Crystal Palace on Thursday, with the France striker sidelined until January 15 with a hamstring problem.

Defender Nacho Monreal has been ruled out due to an ankle injury that is expected to take 10 days to clear.

And midfielder Aaron Ramsey will also be unavailable, as he battles a hamstring problem of his own.

Meanwhile, Christian Benteke can hand the Eagles a crucial "focal point" against Arsenal, according to Roy Hodgson.

Belgium striker Benteke missed Palace's 1-1 Premier League draw at Swansea on December 23 through suspension.

The 27-year-old will return for Thursday's Selhurst Park clash with Arsenal though, leaving manager Hodgson relieved to add a direct edge to his attack.

"We were without Benteke at Swansea; he was a big loss for us in the way we are trying to play," said Hodgson.

"I thought Wilf (Zaha) and Andros (Townsend) did a fantastic job but when they are playing together we don't have a physical presence or that focal point in attack which most teams would like.

"I miss Benteke in good form, that's for sure, and we'll be pleased to welcome him back for these coming games."