Arsene Wenger anticipates Francis Coquelin returning to action much quicker than expected

Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger has revealed Francis Coquelin has recovered from a knee injury much quicker than expected having returned to training on Friday (30 September). Coquelin, 25, was again selected ahead of Granit Xhaka in midfield against Chelsea last Saturday but lasted just over half an hour after picking up a knock after crashing into N'Golo Kante.

The French midfielder left the Emirates that night wearing a knee brace and missed the mid-week Champions League tie against Basel, with Wenger suggesting the player will be sidelined for three weeks.

The Gunners boss struck a much more positive note when addressing the press ahead of Sunday's Premier League clash with Burnley, however.

"He (Coquelin) is much better than expected, he had tests today but I think he will be short of the game on Sunday," he told reporters.

"Coquelin (recovered) much quicker because his knee ligament wasn't damaged as we originally thought. He is keen to start again and had a training session yesterday. We have to be cautious though. Of course it is important (he is back), we have plenty of games coming up."

Olivier Giroud meanwhile is yet to start a game this season with Alexis Sanchez preferred up front. The France international picked up a toe injury in the Champions League draw against Paris Saint-Germain, a game he was also sent off in, and despite coming off the bench for the final 10 minutes in the win against Chelsea, will not be available for the trip to Turf Moor.

Aaron Ramsey meanwhile has not played since the opening day of the season, where he suffered a hamstring injury. Wenger has urged caution with the Welshman's return, however, ruling out a comeback this weekend.

"(Ramsey) is still out of the squad, he should be available after international break."