Arsenal striker Gabriel Jesus is available to face Fulham on Saturday after returning to training this week, manager Mikel Arteta has confirmed.
The 26-year-old underwent surgery on his knee earlier in August but has made a remarkable recovery to make himself available before the end of the month.
It remains to be seen if Arteta will throw Jesus back into action, but suggested the Brazilian is ready to start if required.
Asked if Jesus is available, Arteta said: “Yes, I am really happy. It was a big blow for him after pre-season that he had to have another surgery.
“He is looking really sharp and trained really well for the full week so he is ready to go.”
Asked whether he could start, Arteta added: “Let’s see but, yes, it is very good news. He is ready to go.”
Arsenal have won both of their first two Premier League matches this season, against Nottingham Forest and Crystal Palace, albeit without impressing.
Gabriel Magalhaes’ surprise drop down the pecking order has prompted talk the defender - a stalwart last season - could be sold this summer, with a week of the transfer window left to run.
But Arteta insists Gabriel is staying put, adding: “Gabby is a really important player for us and nothing is going on with that at the moment.”
Kieran Tierney, though, is on the verge of joining Real Sociedad on loan, while Florin Balogun is set to join Monaco for around £39million.
Arteta refused to offer clarity on his departing players’ futures but admits he is excited to define his squad.
He continued: “We have some movements, the last week is going to be really busy but we have no announcements at the moment.
“We need clarity on the numbers we will have and who can do what. When the window is open it is a little bit strange to be competing while it is open.”
