Thomas Vermaelen is set to return to action for Arsenal reserves this weekend.

Vermaelen has been given the green light to play in the match at Manchester United reserves after almost eight months out with an Achilles injury that defied treatment.

The game will be held at Altrincham.

Should the Belgium defender come through Thursday's match unscathed, manager Arsene Wenger may decide to hand him a place in the first team before the end of the season.

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