Arsenal's injury-plagued midfielder Tomas Rosicky has reportedly suffered a new setback and will miss the first six weeks of the new season.

According to The Sun, the 28-year-old Czech Republic international strained a hamstring in training on Wednesday and has been told he will be out of action until mid September.

With Samir Nasri out with a broken leg and Abou Diaby missing from last week's Emirates Cup, the familiar setback for Rosicky leaves Arsenal short of options for what is poised to be a particularly tough start to the season.

Within the first month of the campaign, the Gunners will have to play a two-legged Champions League qualifier as well as travel to Manchester United, Manchester City and Everton.

Andriy Arshavin could therefore be wrapped up in cotton wool this weekend when Arsenal complete their pre-season schedule with a friendly in Valencia.