Arsenal captain Patrick Vieira is set to return to first-team training with the Gunners on Thursday. Vieira, who last week declared he would not be joining Real Madrid after a summer of speculation, has been out of action with a thigh injury.
"Patrick will be back with the squad training this week. His injury is healing well but he hasn't played since Euro 2004," said boss Arsene Wenger.
"He still needs some time but happily we are well-covered at the moment."
Meanwhile, French team-mate Robert Pires has admitted he cannot wait to link up again with Vieira in an Arsenal shirt.
"Of course, I am really pleased Patrick is staying with us. He is the best in the world in his position," said Pires.
"When you have the opportunity to go to Real Madrid, it is logical and normal to take your time to make your decision.
"If Patrick had signed for Real Madrid, I would respect his decision.
"But I am so happy that he decided to stay and that he will be wearing the same club shirt as me," Pires told the London Evening Standard newspaper.
MMIX
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