Abou Diaby is close to an Arsenal return (Picture: Getty)

Abou Diaby has been out injured so long that many have forgotten that he even exists, but there is light at the end of the tunnel for the Frenchman.

After being out for a well over a year with his latest setback, Diaby has been penciled in to return to the Arsenal first-team…. On April 1.

No, it’s not a joke. The news was confirmed by Gunners boss Arsene Wenger in his weekly press conference, with the gaffer hopeful that this is the end of Diaby’s fitness woes.

‘Diaby is coming back now,’ said Wenger.


‘He had a preparation in France, where he had his rehab, and will be back on April 1st.



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Arsene Wenger could have a key player back.. hopefully (Picture: Getty Images)

‘I cannot predict now how much time it will take him to be competitive, but I will have a good surprise when I see him.’

Diaby last played for Arsenal in March 2013, when he sustained anterior ligament damage, before going to Qatar for treatment.

His return to training was then put back by a number of follow up knocks, including ankle and knee trouble, while Wenger said last month he would be surprised if the 27-year-old played again.

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