Arsenal may have a useful lift before facing Everton, with Piero Hincapie back in full training and pushing for a return far sooner than first expected. That matters, because Mikel Arteta had signalled a longer absence after the defender picked up a freak injury during a post-match warm-down earlier this month.

Hincapie has not played since his late cameo in the 2-1 win over Leeds. He then missed the Nottingham Forest game and was limited to individual work before the midweek trip to Bayern Munich. Now he is back with the group, and that changes the conversation before Saturday.

Arteta kept it simple: “Piero, let’s see. If he is able to train the next few days he can be available for Everton, which is great news.” That is not a guarantee, but it is a clear shift from “weeks” to possible involvement within days.

Piero Hincapie return gathers pace

There was also a familiar training-ground ritual to mark the comeback trail. Hincapie went through the standard tunnel of team-mates and coaching staff, taking the cheers and the slaps on the head before getting down to work. It tells you two things, he is back among the squad, and the mood around him is good.

For Arsenal, availability in defence matters at this stage of the season. Hincapie offers depth, mobility and another option for Arteta against an Everton side that will expect a physical contest.

Bukayo Saka injury latest still unclear

There was no Bukayo Saka in training, which is the less encouraging part of the update. Arsenal are still waiting on further detail after the quad injury he suffered just 10 minutes into the game at the Allianz Arena. Until those scan results are fully clarified, there is no point pretending otherwise. His status remains uncertain.

Christos Tzolis is also still a doubt. He has not featured since damaging his hamstring while away with Greece.

Jurrien Timber milestone recognised

One lighter note came with Jurrien Timber receiving a framed shirt to mark his 100th Arsenal appearance. A nice moment, and a reminder that squad continuity still matters when the run-in tightens.

Bottom line, Arsenal have one possible return, one confirmed doubt and one major wait. Hincapie is the immediate positive before Everton.