Abou Diaby, Andre Santos nearing return to training

Abou Diaby and Andre Santos are expected to return to Arsenal training next week as they continue to recover from their respective injuries.

French midfielder Diaby was a key performer as the Gunners went unbeaten during their opening five Premier League games of the season.

However, he has since been sidelined with a similar muscular problem that has kept Andre Santos out of action for over a month.

Manager Arsene Wenger told the club's official website: "They should be coming back into training with the squad next week."

Arsenal return to Premier League action against Newcastle United this Saturday evening after their Boxing Day derby with West Ham United was postponed.