Granit Xhaka has hailed his return to Arsenal training with a message to supporters ahead of this weekend’s clash with Liverpool.
The Gunners take on Jurgen Klopp’s men at Anfield aiming to extend their ten-match unbeaten run in all competitions.
One man who will not be taking to the pitch is Swiss midfielder Granit Xhaka as he continues his recovery from a knee injury suffered in the North London Derby victory against Tottenham in September.
Whilst the Swiss will still be ruled out this weekend, Xhaka does not actually appear too far from being back in action having been spotted getting involved in training ahead of this weekend’s trip to Merseyside.
The extent of his involvement in preparations remains to be seen but it will certainly be a big boost to see him back in action.
Xhaka himself has taken to Instagram with a positive message to Arsenal supporters.
He wrote: “All smiles. Another day closer to being back.”
Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta revealed last month that Xhaka was targeting a quicker return to the pitch than expected.
The Spaniard said: “Granit is progressing really well but obviously we know it is a long-term injury unfortunately. With Granit, I don't know, but I'm sure that if you tell him three [months], he will be thinking two.
“He will be trying to do extra work to try to minimise that time, that's for sure. We have to do it in the right way because it's a significant injury and we want to have him back properly when he can.”
Xhaka has so far missed six Premier League matches since suffering the injury against Spurs.
The Gunners’ official website has suggested that the aim is for the midfielder to make his return to full training in January.
