Aaron Ramsey
Ramsey likely to be ready for North London Derby. Reuters

Arsene Wenger is confident Aaron Ramsey can make his long awaited Arsenal return against Tottenham Hotspur next Sunday.

The Wales international was the catalyst to the Gunners' blistering start to the season that saw them create the foundation of their Premier League challenge.

The 23-year-old's stunning campaign was halted during the festive period when he suffered a thigh injury and has not played since Boxing Day. His absence, coupled by the waning influence of Mesut Ozil has coincided with Arsenal's slump in form that now sees them four points off Premier League leaders Chelsea.

News that Jack Wilshere will be missing for a minimum of six weeks worked as a further blow to the club's hopes of securing their first piece of silverware in 10 years.

But Wenger has confirmed that Ramsey is edging closer to a return, although Saturday's FA Cup quarter final meeting with Everton will come too soon for the former Cardiff City midfielder.

"Ramsey is one week away, he should be back for next weekend," Arsene Wenger told a press conference.

Wenger also confirmed that January signing Kim Kallstrom is expected to return in time for the visit to White Hart Lane next Sunday. The Swede was brought to the club to supplement Wenger's squad in the absence of Ramsey and Wilshere at the end of January but a back injury has prevented him from making his debut for the club.

The Gunners are also likely to be without centre half Laurent Koscielny for their match against Roberto Martinez's side at the Emirates. "We have a little doubt about Koscielny, everyone else came back in good shape," Wenger said after the France international missed his country's mid-week win over Holland at the Stade de France.

On Wilshere's injury, the Arsenal boss said: "When you are Jack's age you just want to play. Certainly injuries have a weight on his mind."

Arsene Wenger Tottenham