Arsenal defender Lauren has been ruled out for the rest of the season with a knee injury, manager Arsene Wenger confirmed today.

"It is bad news because he is one who can play everywhere, right, left, in midfield," Wenger told a news conference. "It is a blow because we have many injuries."

Fellow defenders Pascal Cygan (hamstring), Ashley Cole (thigh), Gael Clichy (foot) and Kerrea Gilbert (back) are unavailable for Saturday's game against Birmingham City. Centre back Sol Campbell has been left out of the squad because of personal problems.

Lauren has been one of Arsene Wenger's most consistent performers this season and Wednesday's defeat by West Ham United was the first league game he had missed.

The former Cameroon defender retired from international football in December 2002 at the age of 25 after helping them win the African Nations Cup.