Former Arsenal midfielder Santi Cazorla was back in action with Villarreal yesterday.

Marca says 76 minutes into a pre-season friendly between Villarreal and Hercules on Tuesday night, Cazorla was able to get back into playing action after a horrendous injury lay-off.

At the Yellow Submarine's training ground Mini Estadi, the midfielder received a standing ovation when stepping onto the field of the 1-1 draw.

Not since October 19, 2016 had Cazorla enjoyed a game of professional football when appearing for Arsenal in a Champions League encounter with Ludogorets.

Currently a free agent, Cazorla hopes to win a deal with Villarreal before the season kicks off.