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Kieran Gibbs lifts Arsenal
ARSENE Wenger says Arsenal’s defensive injury crisis is easing after left-back Kieran Gibbs returned to full training, though not in time for tonight’s Premier League trip to Bolton.
Gunners boss Wenger reported no new fitness worries after Sunday’s thrilling 3-2 FA Cup win over Aston Villa.
Right-back Bacary Sagna came on late for his first appearance since breaking an ankle against Tottenham in October.
And the return of England’s Gibbs, after three months out after groin surgery, will be another timely boost.
Carl Jenkinson and Andre Santos are still on the recovery trail, though.
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Johan Djourou has also shrugged off a calf problem picked up in the home defeat against Manchester United, so will bolster a defence slowly starting to regain balance.
Kieran is still short to play, but it is good news to have him back.
Wenger said: “He had a normal training session. Kieran is still short to play, but it is good news to have him back.
“One or two more weeks practice will get him back to being available again.”
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Wenger admits his players will have to dig deep to go again at Bolton after their rousing second-half Villa display.
He said: “That was a very demanding match physically. Now it is important we recover and prepare well.”