Per Mertesacker has returned to full Arsenal training and could be back in the line-up for the weekend.

The German defender has missed the past two Gunners fixtures with a virus but has now recovered and is expected to take part in Saturday's home clash with Stoke City when the Premier League returns from the international break.

Mertesacker was unavailable for the 0-0 draw with Liverpool and 1-0 win over Newcastle United with Brazilian Gabriel Paulista stepping into his centre-back role with aplomb.

Calum Chambers and Gabriel navigated a shutout against the Reds at the Emirates Stadium before Laurent Koscielny replaced the former for last weekend's trip to St James' Park.