The Spanish midfielder has been out of action since last month with a hamstring problem but it's understood that he has reached full recovery.

Arsenal manger Arsene Wenger is yet to decide whether to include his prized asset in the starting eleven or not.

"Cesc has prepared well. He had a little setback, but got over the hurdle and is ready to play at full fitness, but whether I start him or not, I do not know yet," Wenger said.

"It will be whether I take a gamble or not, because he has been out for a long time.

"But physically he is ready and fit - and wanting to play. You know his influence on our team, he is our leader, our passer, he has a good level of assists and a good goalscoring record.

"Ideally you want him in the team."