An explanation for Arsenal star Fabio Vieira being forced to don a protective boot at the club's training ground has been provided on Friday evening.

Portuguese youth international Vieira, of course, opted to take his talents to the red half of north London earlier this month.

In something of a bolt from the blue, the powers that be at Arsenal swooped to tie up a deal for the now-former Porto standout, who is expected to play a key role in Mikel Arteta's squad from next season on.

In turn, upon word coming to the fore on Friday that Vieira - who is yet to even take part in his first training session with his new club - had been spotted wearing protective footwear, concern inevitably began to spread across Arsenal's fanbase.

If the latest word stemming from the media is anything to go by, though, then those of a Gunners persuasion need not fret.

As per the reliable James Benge of CBS Sports, Vieira is carrying little more than a 'minor foot issue', which is not expected to keep him out of action for any sort of extended period.

The 22-year-old's problem, in fact, is understood to have been present before his move to England was announced, with Vieira's medical, evidently, having not given rise to further concern.

It remains to be seen, though, whether his introduction to Arsenal's ranks for pre-season training this month is delayed.

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