Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger has revealed that Abou Diaby could yet feature for the Gunners before the end of the season.
The France international is expected to resume full training following a 13-month absence with a knee injury on April 1.
Although the 64-year-old insists that his priority is to ease Diaby back into first-team duties, Wenger is optimistic that the midfielder will be fitter than expected upon returning from his rehabilitation programme.
Speaking to reporters ahead of Saturday's clash with Manchester City at the Emirates Stadium, he said: "Diaby is coming back now. He had a preparation in France, where he had his rehab, and will be back to full training on April 1.
"Let's not forget he has not played for a year. I cannot predict now how much time it will take him to be competitive.
"I cannot plan for him to play a role now in the coming games, but maybe I will have a good surprise when I see him."
The North London outfit, who sit fourth in the Premier League table, have seven top-flight fixtures remaining, as well as an FA Cup semi-final tie with Wigan Athletic at Wembley.
Shane Callaghan
