Arsenal boost: Santi Cazorla hopeful of returning this season

Arsenal midfielder Santi Cazorla has admitted that he is hopeful of returning to action before the end of the season having spent over a year out injured.

The Spaniard last featured for the Gunners in October 2016 being ruled due to an Achilles problem which required several surgeries.

Cazorla is believed to have stepped up his rehabilitation training on the pitch at the Emirates Stadium prior to last Thursday's Europa League semi-final against Atletico Madrid.

Return this season

The 33-year-old returned to former club Real Oviedo on Tuesday as part of his rehabilitation.

The midfielder confirmed that he hopes to return to action this season.

Cazorla told Spanish media outlet AS:

"I've still got some way to go, because after being sidelined for 18 months, everything has to be done in its own time.

"But the sensations I have to keep getting better and I'm feeling optimistic about the future

"The objective is to play some part with the team before the season ends, but we have to take things carefully.

"After being out for so long it will take a while to get back into form, it's a real struggle, but when you have been out like I have, you also notice pains elsewhere – apart from what I've had with my tendon.

"But all of that must mean that I am doing things right, and I hope to be back as soon as possible."