Thomas Vermaelen set to make injury comeback in Arsenal’s reserve game against Manchester United

Thomas Vermaelen – Arsenal, (Getty Images)

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Thomas Vermaelen is set to make his comeback from injury tonight in Arsenal reserves game with Manchester United.

The Belgian international has been out since September after damaging his Achilles whilst playing for Belgium during an International break last year.

Arsene Wenger confirmed in his pre-match press conference today that the centre-back will play for the reserves but would not be fit for Sunday’s clash with Manchester United at the Emirates.

Wenger said: “Vermaelen will play tonight for the Reserves but he will not play against Man United.”

The defender last played for the Gunners in their 2-1 victory over Blackburn in August and he has been sorely missed by Arsene Wenger’s side whose defensive lapses in recent weeks have cost them the title.

His comeback from injury has been greeted with delight by his Arsenal team-mates including Robin van Persie who expressed his happiness on his Twitter account.

The Dutchman tweeted: “Good luck tonight Thomas Vermaelen . Welcome back mate.”

Abou Diaby will also miss the clash with the Red Devils with a calf strain but apart from that Arsene Wenger has a full squad to choose from.

He said: “Diaby is still out and everybody else is basically available.”