Arsenal injury news: Mikel Arteta 'to return from injury soon' as Gunners prepare for Stoke

Arsenal midfielder Mikel Arteta has given an update regarding his fitness and admitted he hopes to be back on the pitch soon.

The Spanish midfielder has been out of action for over a month after picking up a calf injury during the 2-0 win over Borussia Dortmund in the Champions League game. At the time, it was believed that Arteta will only be out for a short period of time.

However, the midfielder later had a setback during his return to training and manager Arsene Wenger revealed he would not play until January. Arteta's injury came as a big blow to Arsenal as it left them light in the holding midfield department, with Mathieu Flamini being the only recognised player in that position.

To add to the Gunners' troubles, Aaron Ramsey and Jack Wilshere suffered injuries after their skipper prompting the manager to call back Francis Coquelin, who was on loan at Charlton Athletic. To make matters worse, Flamini picked up an injury during the Christmas period leaving his compatriot as the only defensive midfielder in the team.

However, there is light at the end of the tunnel after the manager revealed Ramsey and Flamini could return for the visit of Stoke City on Sunday 11 January.

Arteta has revealed he is progressing in his recovery and hopes to be back in action soon as he has had a difficult time watching his teammates from the sidelines.

"I have started running this week, so let's see where this progress is going to take me. My aim is always to play and be on the pitch as quickly as possible, because I really miss it," Arteta said, as quoted by the Daily Mail.

"I love competing, I love being out there and it has been a difficult time for me."