Arsenal has received a major fitness boost with the news that Abou Diaby has recovered from his injury. Arsene Wenger's side surrendered their place at the top of the Premier League on Monday night with their 1-0 defeat to new league leaders Manchester United and the Gunners will be desperate for a win against Stoke City to keep their title ambitions on track.

Abou Diaby has been out with for two months with an ankle injury and has not featured since his side's 2-1 win over Birmingham in October.

The Frenchman could add much needed resilience into Arsenal's midfield and his return to the squad in time for the festive fixture pile up will be welcomed by the club.