Arsenal defender Laurent Koscielny has returned to training sooner than expected, following a lengthy injury layoff.
The Frenchman, who hasn't featured for his side since suffering an Achilles injury during the second leg of the Gunner's Europa League semi-final clash with Atletico Madrid back in May, wasn't expected to be back until December, having undergone surgery. However, Unai Emery has confirmed that the player is back training again, although he doesn't know when he will be able to play.
"We are happy to have him here with us, because he's our captain and he's showing us his spirit to stay with us."@UnaiEmery_ is pleased to see @6_LKOSCIELNY back at Arsenal Training Centre... — Arsenal FC (@Arsenal) August 23, 2018
"He’s working very hard. First he was in France. He came back to us last Sunday. We are happy to have him here with us because he’s our captain and he’s showing us his spirit to stay with us," the new manager told the club's official website.
"We need to be patient with him because the injury was an important injury. It’s clear that it’s very important to stay with us, working here and showing us that he wants to help us.
"It’s difficult to know [when he will be able to play again]. You look at this morning, he’s running, he’s working on the pitch. The progress is very good progress."
Koscielny's progress should be a welcome development at the Emirates, given that the Londoners have already conceded five goals in their first two matches of the season and are looking rather frail at the back.
While the France international isn't likely to be thrust back into the squad in the coming weeks, or even months, that he's able to run and train is a very positive sign.