Arsenal defender Kieran Gibbs should be available for action in "one or two weeks" after three months on the sidelines.
The left-back has endured a lengthy spell in the treatment room with groin problems but has now returned to full training with the first-team squad.
Boss Arsene Wenger will not risk Gibbs' fitness by rushing him back into action, but the Frenchman did confirm the defender is close to a return to first-team duty.
"He had a normal training session yesterday," Wenger told the club's official website.
"He is still short to play now but it is good news to have him back and I think one or two more weeks practice will get him back to being available again. That is very positive."
The FA Cup fifth round tie at either Sunderland or Middlesbrough, depending on whoever wins their replay on February 8, has been suggested as a possible return date for the Gunners defender.