Theo Walcott will be subjected to a late fitness test ahead of Arsenal's clash with Sunderland as he bids to make his first-team return at the Stadium of Light, Goal understands.
The winger has been absent from the first-team squad since January 4, when he damaged his knee ligaments during the Gunners' FA Cup victory over Tottenham.
However, the 25-year-old came through 45 minutes for the Under-21 side last week and is now in with a chance of making the bench for the Premier League clash on Saturday.
Arsene Wenger was pessimistic when asked about Walcott's chances on Friday, telling reporters: "He has to get used to physical contact again. He has been out for nine months. It was a big injury.
"It takes time to settle and to get used to being kicked again. I am not sure to involve him tomorrow. He needs a game to feel completely confident but he is not far."
But Goal understands the Gunners will test Walcott's fitness on the morning of the game before making a final decision on his inclusion.
The news of the 25-year-old's potential return will come as a welcome boost for Wenger, with a number of first-team stars – including Mesut Ozil, Olivier Giroud and Laurent Koscielny – still sidelined.
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