Arsenal Get Fitness Boost Ahead UCL Final With PSG

There was a huge boost for Arsenal when Mikel Merino stepped onto the grass, which could spell a potential return from his long-running foot injury that has kept him out since January, The Standard reports.

There was a big reception for Merino, as the players formed a tunnel for him to run through and slap him on the back as he returned.

Max Dowman did not feature in training as it is currently exam season for the 16-year-old.

Another who was not with the first-team cohort, however, was Jurrien Timber, who continues his recovery from a groin problem.

The Dutchman has been out since mid-March with an ankle problem and now this groin issue, which has seen him miss the last 12 games in the Gunners’ title run-in.

Arteta has endured a crisis at right-back in recent weeks, with both of his go-to options, Timber and Ben White, both on the treatment table.

White suffered a season-ending MCL injury in the win over West Ham earlier this month.

It will see the former Brighton and Hove Albion man miss the Champions League final, and Cristhian Mosquera has stepped up to fill in in both Timber and White’s absences.