David Luiz 'returns to Arsenal training ahead of Villarreal clash'

Arsenal defender David Luiz has reportedly returned to training ahead of their Europa League semi-final first leg with Villarreal.

The Brazilian centre-back was a regular starter under Mikel Arteta before sustaining a serious knee injury - one which required him to undergo a small operation after their draw with West Ham United on March 21.

Luiz has spent the past month on the sidelines recuperating, but he is reported to have made great strides in his recovery and could be at Arteta's disposal sooner than expected.

According to the Evening Standard, Luiz could prove his fitness in time to face Villarreal in the first leg on Thursday, where he would reunite with former Gunners boss Unai Emery.

Luiz's inclusion would leave Kieran Tierney as the Gunners' only confirmed absentee, although Alexandre Lacazette (hamstring) and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang (malaria) remain doubtful for Thursday's game.

Luiz is yet to pen an extension on his Arsenal deal beyond the summer, though, and there is a growing expectation that he will leave the club when his existing deal expires in June.