Arsenal's Euro Stars Back In Training

 

Arsenal's Euro 2016 stars have returned to training amid an injury crisis ahead of Sunday's Premier League opener against Liverpool. Arsene Wenger goes into the match without central defensive pair Per Mertesacker and Gabriel Paulista which could mean a swift recall for Laurent Koscielny.

The France international, who helped his side reach the final of the Euros in Paris, was joined on the training ground on Wednesday by compatriot Olivier Giroud and Germany's Mesut Ozil. Wenger, who originally claimed the trio would not be considered for action this weekend, may now look to draft in Koscielny with Gabriel (ankle) and Mertersacker (knee) a long way from full fitness.

Jack Wilshere, who played a bit-part role for England in France following an injury-hit campaign, believes Wenger has the cover at his disposal to cope with the absence of his central-defensive pairing. Ozil's availability could be tempting for the Frenchman, who celebrates 20 years in charge of the club in September, but he is likely to be kept under wraps for the following week's trip to reigning champions Leicester.