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Arsenal have confirmed that David Luiz has returned to full training and is available for selection for Thursday’s Europa League clash against Molde.
The Brazilian centre-half, on £100k-p/w, has been out since he suffered a thigh injury in the second half of the 1-0 loss to Leicester City.
Having originally been ruled out for a ‘few weeks’, it seems the former Chelsea man has made a swift recovery.
The news surrounding Luiz’s return will be a welcome boost for manager Mikel Arteta, who had just three fit centre-backs for Sunday’s victory over Manchester United.
And with the 33-year-old returning to full fitness, the Gunners finally have one of their best passers of a ball back.
Out of Arsenal’s options at the back, Luiz has provided the club with a different option should the forwards fail to deliver. His long passes over the top of high lines have allowed the likes of Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang to get in behind defences, making him an invaluable asset.
This was clearly evident in the clash versus the Foxes, where the £5.4m-rated ace played nine long passes with eight of them proving accurate.
The Brazil international has averaged the most long balls per game of any Arsenal defender, showing just how crucial he has been to the team this campaign.
Luiz may have proven to be a bit of a liability last season following a raft of mistakes. However, this year, with the side failing to create many chances he is proving a brilliant option, and his return to fitness is a welcome boost ahead of crucial games against Molde and Aston Villa.
Arsenal fans, do you think Luiz is the club’s best CB option? Let us know!
