Arsene Wenger has confirmed the return of first-choice right back Bacary Sagna and has admitted he is relieved to have the Frenchman ready for selection.
The 28-year-old has been absent since breaking his leg in the derby defeat to Tottenham Hotspur and was expected to be out for several months.
However, the French international has made a surprise return to fitness and could feature in the Gunners' fourth round FA Cup tie against Aston Villa on Sunday.
"Bacary is back in full training," Wenger confirmed to 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."
Sagna has made 138 appearances in a red shirt since joining from Auxerre in 2007.