Santi Cazorla returns to full Arsenal training for first time in 19 months
Helping hand from fellow Spaniard. Left back Monreal with Cazolar (getty Images)
London, May 5, 2018 (AltAfrika)-Arsenal training ground exploded in joy today when spectators sighted mercurial arsenal midfielder Santi Cazorla in full arsenal training kit after missing the last 19 months with a chronic Achilles injury.
The Spaniard took part in training ahead of Arsene Wenger’s final home game as Arsenal manager against Burnley on Sunday.
Cazorla watched from the touchline as Arsenal were knocked out of the Europa League in a 2-1 aggregate defeat to Atletico Madrid.
Cazorla’s current Arsenal contract runs out this summer and it remains unclear whether he will be offered a new deal.
“My contract ends this summer and no one has told me anything, but it’s normal,” Cazorla told Cadena Ser radio. “I’ve been out of action for so long.”
“I’ve been practically unable to train, and that is my main focus right now,” he said.
“I want to gradually train, for them [Arsenal] to see me and see how I feel.
“We shall see what happens in the future. The important thing is for me to return to play, and then we shall see where I play.
Speaking ahead of his Emirates farewell Wenger said he hoped Cazorla will prove his fitness and earn a new deal.
“I hope that certainly he will come back before the end of the season and we can make a check-up of where he stands,” said Wenger.
“Can he play again in the Premier League? I don’t know, I have to see how he responds to his injury.”
