Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger believes that midfielder Abou Diaby could return to the first-team squad before the end of the season.

Diaby has been on the sidelines for over 12 months after suffering a cruciate ligament injury to his left knee last year, but Wenger has revealed that the Frenchman is scheduled to step up his recovery by taking part in full training next week.

Wenger told the club's official website: "Diaby is back to full training next week.

"He could be available soon, maybe in a couple of weeks."

Diaby has made 178 appearances for the Gunners since joining the club in 2006.