Arsenal midfielder Tomas Rosicky has thrown away his crutches as he steps up his recovery from knee injury.

"To lose the crutches has been a great relief. For six weeks after the surgery I was strictly ordered not to make a single movement without the crutches," explained Rosicky.

"Now that is over, but I will not remember it kindly. Last Wednesday was the first time I walked without any support. It is nothing great, but at least I can walk.

"I am stumbling and getting used to it. After a long time without proper movements, my knee is stiff. It just needs time.

"In a few days I am flying to England. In London there is a more sophisticated rehabilitation schedule waiting for me.

"I don't know what it will be like, but at least I will be doing something at last. I am sure the Arsenal specialists have thought it through well."