Giroud could return against United

Arsene Wenger has confirmed Olivier Giroud is to resume training with Arsenal next week as the striker looks to make a return against Manchester United in two weeks’ time.

Giroud was ruled out for the rest of 2014 after sustaining a tibia injury in August, but Wenger revealed last month that the France international was ahead of schedule.

Sunday’s trip to Swansea is Arsenal’s last match before the international break, and it appears the striker could be in contention when they return to action against United at the Emirates on November 22.

“Giroud joins in training next week,” Wenger told Arsenal’s official website.

Centre-back Laurent Koscielny, meanwhile, has been out since last month with an Achilles problem but Wenger said he “has a little chance to be back after the international break”.

Jack Wilshere will be available for Sunday’s game at the Liberty Stadium but Mikel Arteta, who came off during the 3-3 draw with Anderlecht on Tuesday, will also miss out.

“He has a mild hamstring strain and he will be out for a short period because it’s a grade one,” Wenger said. “He should be back after the internationals.”

Wenger also said long-term absentees Mathieu Debuchy, David Ospina and Mesut Ozil are “progressing very well” but added: “Of course they are not available before or straight after the international break.”

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