Arsenal [ Images ] defender Thomas Vermaelen suffered a suspected broken leg during the goalless draw at Aston Villa [ Images ] in the Premier League on Wednesday.

The 24-year-old Belgiium international, who has made a huge impact at the Emirates after his move from Ajax Amsterdam last year, limped off after 35 minutes.

"His leg is numb, it might be a nerve, or it might be a fracture of the fibula, we hope not, but we will check it in the morning," Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger [ Images ] told Sky Sports.

Vermaelen scored on his league debut for Arsenal in the season-opening 6-1 win at Everton and has netted six goals in 31 appearances for the club.