Santi Cazorla targets Arsenal return before end of season as he looks to earn new contract
The Spaniard was filmed training at the Emirates last week
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Santi Cazorla is hoping he will be fit enough to feature in an Arsenal team managed by Arsene Wenger one last time as he steps up his recovery from an Achilles injury.
The 33-year-old has not played since October 2016 after complications with the injury which has needed several surgeries and a skin graft from his arm.
It had not been known when Cazorla would be back but he was filmed training on the Emirates Stadium pitch last week ahead of the first-leg Europa League draw with Atletico Madrid.
He is continuing to step up his rehabilitation and spent some time at former club Real Oviedo this week but is hoping return before the end of the season as he looks to earn a new contract before it expires in the summer.
“I've still got some way to go, because after being sidelined for 18 months, everything has to be done in its own time. But the sensations I have keep getting better and I'm feeling optimistic about the future,” said Cazorla, quoted by Spanish media outlet AS.
“The objective is to play some part with the team before the season ends, but we have to take things carefully.
“After being out for so long it will take a while to get back into form, it's a real struggle, but when you have been out like I have, you also notice pains elsewhere - apart from what I've had with my tendon.
“But all of that must mean that I am doing things right, and I hope to be back as soon as possible.”
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments