Santi Cazorla has given Arsenal a huge boost by returning to training ahead of the clash against Middlesbrough at the Emirates on Saturday.
The midfielder had to be substituted in the second half of the 6-0 win over Ludogorets on Wednesday with Mohamed Elneny taking his place after 57 minutes.
Cazorla spoke after the game and admitted he was hopeful he would be fit to face Aitor Karanka’s men after suffering a muscle problem.
“Yes, yes. I hope so. I have to be ready to play,” he explained. “I have a pain in the tendon. I got a kick in the first half and during the second I still had some pain so, with the result in our favour, the boss decided to give me a rest. It was good to recover for Saturday.”
Cazorla has been a virtual ever present this season and speaking at his pre-match press conference on Friday, Wenger admitted the Spaniard was the only new injury doubt.
“From Wednesday night we have no big problems, the only uncertainty is Santi Cazorla so we will see,” he said.
Arsenal take on Middlesbrough hoping to make it eight wins in a row in all competitions and continue the fine form that has seen them beat Chelsea, Swansea and Burnley to move level on points with Manchester City at the top of the Premier League table.