Hector Bellerin was taken off at halftime against Crystal Palace on Sunday because of a muscular problem that is not likely to keep him on the sidelines for any serious amount of time.

Hector Bellerin was a surprise absentee when the teams returned after the halftime break. The Spanish defender was then seen limping somewhat at Selhurst Park, but after the game he was spotted walking unaided and he even took time to sign autographs for some fans.

Speaking after the game that saw Arsenal’s winning run come to an end but their unbeaten run extended to 12 games, Unai Emery said, “Yes, he’s injured.

“I hope it’s not a big injury, but he had muscular pains.

“I don’t know [whether he’s a doubt for the Liverpool game next Saturday].”

Before Arsenal face Liverpool in the League in what will be their biggest test since the opening two fixture, Arsenal welcome Blackpool to the Emirates in the Carabao Cup on Wednesday evening.

It was unlikely that Bellerin was going to play in that game against the Tangerines with Stephan Lichtsteiner set to come into the cup team.

Emery also admitted after the game on Sunday that he was a ‘little’ disappointed to have dropped two points. “I think we are in our process, in our way, and I think we are in a good position now, for continuing our objective,” he added.

“It’s difficult away and I think the team can improve. I think today, the draw was not bad. We want to win but it’s not easy. We look at today and they are a good team. Playing here is not easy for every team, but our challenge is to continue our process of learning in every match.

“It’s about learning the defensive situations and improving.”