Mathieu Debuchy is edging closer to a comeback for Arsenal, and the right-back is aiming to be back playing in December.
Debuchy, 29, has been out of action since September after injuring his ankle in the Gunners' 2-2 draw with Manchester City, and Arsene Wenger's side now trail Premier League leaders Chelsea by 12 points.
The France international signed from Newcastle for around 12 million pounds this summer, and is determined to kickstart his Arsenal career having been forced to watch his new team from the sidelines over the last two months.
"My injury is now better," Debuchy told the club's official website. "I work hard every day with the physio and I want to be back on the pitch in December. I'm looking forward to it.
"I was really proud when I signed for Arsenal and it has been frustrating getting injured so soon, but I am focused on coming back stronger. I am very positive about that."
"I want to be back on the pitch in December." @MatDebuchy discusses returning from his injury http://t.co/PFYjof8Dao pic.twitter.com/fFiJjitLdh
- Arsenal FC (@Arsenal) November 16, 2014
Debuchy -- who was speaking at an Arsenal Soccer School in Dubai -- has seen 19-year-old Calum Chambers deputise at right-back in his absence, and is keen to regain fitness to win back his place in Wenger's side.
"Training at Arsenal is an extremely high standard," he added. "I'm nearly 30 but I'm still improving by training with players who are of such a high quality, like everyone at Arsenal.
"It's been more frustrating watching from the stands than being on the pitch. The last two games have been quite positive and hopefully when we face Manchester United we'll come out on top."