Kieran Gibbs close to Arsenal return

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has revealed that Kieran Gibbs is "nearly ready" to make his first-team return after being sidelined through injury.

The defender, who recently returned to full training, has not featured for the Gunners since suffering a groin problem in October.

"Gibbs is nearly ready but what he lacks a little bit is confidence," said Wenger. "He has not played since the beginning of October.

"He had two surgeries so I will have a little chat with him. He maybe needs a game with the reserves, I do not know yet."

Arsenal, who are currently seventh in the Premier League table, host Blackburn Rovers on Saturday.