Tomas Rosicky is set to make his Arsenal comeback today - after 18 months on the sidelines.

The Czech Republic midfielder will put his injury nightmares behind him when he runs out for the Gunners' first pre-season game at Barnet.

Rosicky, 28, has been restricted to just 61 games in three years after being sidelined by a hamstring injury which then affected his knee tendons.

The problems failed to disappear after surgery and there were fears over his long-term future.

But Rosicky finally managed to regain full fitness at the end of last season and now hopes to get his career back on track.

Gunner skipper Cesc Fabregas said: "He's my best friend in the team and one of my best friends in life.

"He can bring many, many things to the side. He's a guy with a lot of experience, has won things, knows how to compete, is very humble and works for the team.

"Technically he is one of the best in the world and physically I am sure he will be really strong. He has been working really hard and I cannot wait to see him playing again."