The 21-year-old striker played in the second string's 2-2 draw against West Ham on Wednesday and completed a full 90 minutes in his first competitive game following ankle surgery in May.

After suffering a similar injury at the beginning of last season, he only started three first-team games during Arsenal's double-winning term.

"I can't tell you how good it feels to be back," he told the club's official website.

"The ankle felt good so, at the moment, I'm pretty confident.

"I need two or three more reserve games then I can start pushing for a place in the first team squad.

"Last season was one of the lowest points of my short career. But at the moment I'm so happy because I have got back playing again."

Jeffers' manager Arsene Wenger is also hopeful that the England U21 star can work his way into a squad which already boasts the formidable talents of Thierry Henry, Dennis Bergkamp and Sylvain Wiltord.

"It could be his season, don't forget. I want to give a chance to Jeffers when he comes back and also to Jeremie Aliadiere. They are both young and very talented."