Arsene Wenger has received a major boost with the news that Bacary Sagna has returned to full training with the Arsenal squad.
Defender could make comeback against visiting Villa
Arsene Wenger has received a major boost with the news that Bacary Sagna has returned to full training with the Arsenal squad, ahead of schedule.
The defender, who broke his right leg in the derby defeat against Tottenham at White Hart Lane back in October, had been ruled out for several months.
However, following successful rehabilitation, the 28-year-old could now force his way into the Gunners' team for their FA Cup fourth round tie at home to Aston Villa on Sunday.
"Bacary is back in full training," the manager told the club's
official website. "Many players who are not specialist right-backs have been playing in this position so we are relieved to have him back."
The France international is expected to go through a rigorous fitness test to determine whether he will be involved at the Emirates Stadium.
And Wenger has also been buoyed by the news that Thierry Henry, Mikel Arteta and Francis Coquelin could all make the line-up after recovering from knocks, as Arsenal look to avoid a fourth defeat in five games.
"At the moment, many players are on their way back," said Wenger. "I'll have to look at them and see how much of a gamble I can take because we play again on Wednesday.
"(Kieran) Gibbs will certainly not be involved at all on Sunday, but the others could be involved. That will be decided before the game."
