• Premier League

Giroud makes early return to training

ESPN staff
November 13, 2014
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Olivier Giroud has handed Arsenal a fitness boost after returning to training on Thursday.

Giroud, 28, was originally ruled out for the rest of 2014 after sustaining a tibia injury in the 2-2 draw against Everton on August 23.

However, Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger revealed last month that the France international was ahead of schedule, and the club's official website confirmed on Thursday that he has now resumed training.

An Arsenal statement read: "Further to a successful rehabilitation programme so far, Olivier Giroud is back in training.

"The France international suffered a fracture to his left tibia during the 2-2 draw with Everton on August 23 and had successful surgery four days later."

With Arsenal not set to play again until November 22 due to the international break, Giroud could well return in time for the Premier League clash at home to Manchester United.

Wenger will welcome the news given that he is currently without the sidelined Mesut Ozil, Laurent Koscielny, Mikel Arteta, Mathieu Debuchy, David Ospina and Abou Diaby.

Olivier Giroud could return to the Arsenal team as early as next week's clash with Manchester United © PA Photos
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