Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain's Arsenal comeback clears important hurdle

5 Dec 2013 22:30

Midfielder out with a knee injury since opening day has resumed running in training ahead of potential return after Christmas

Remember me? Oxlade-Chamberlain is set to strengthen Arsenal's title-chasing squad

Clive Mason

Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain has given Arsenal and England a huge fitness boost.

The 20-year-old midfielder has start running in training as he steps up his workout programme after a four-month lay-off.

Oxlade-Chamberlain, who injured knee ligaments in the Gunners' loss to Aston Villa on the opening day of the season, is due to return to the first team squad after Christmas.

England boss Roy Hodgson will be keen for Oxlade-Chamberlain to get back to fitness to increase his selection options head of the World Cup next summer.

Forward Lukas Podolski, another Gunners regular out since August, is also to return to full training.

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