Takehiro Tomiyasu, a defender for the Japan national team, has returned to training ahead of Sunday’s trip to Craven Cottage to play Fulham, giving Arsenal a welcome injury boost.
Photographs from the Gunners’ most recent practice have been made public, and journalist George Bird posted one on social media (formerly known as Twitter) that features the full-back.
Behind the scenes: Arsenal and Liverpool’s exciting Anfield draw
Ben White and Eddie Nketiah are in front of Tomiyasu, who is seen standing next to Mohamed Elneny in the background.
Due to a calf injury, the 25-year-old was forced off the field during the team’s 2-1 victory over Wolverhampton Wanderers earlier this month. He has missed the last six games in all competitions.
Though it is unclear if he will be eligible for selection tomorrow, it is anticipated that he will make an Arsenal appearance before departing for the AFC Asian Cup next month on international duty.
Japan has been drawn into Group D with Indonesia, Iraq, and Vietnam. Their first match is against Vietnam on January 14. The competition will take place from January 12 to February 10.
Important to the Samurai Blue, Tomiyasu is eager to make an impression at the tournament as his nation attempts to win it for the first time since 2011.
This season, the adaptable defender has made 19 appearances for Arsenal in all competitions, contributing three assists and a goal. He has been a vital element of the team.
Tomiyasu might play if he is unable to play against Fulham. The Gunners will play again tomorrow, January 7, at Emirates Stadium in the FA Cup third round against Liverpool.
In his absence, they have dropped two Premier League games and drawn another, leaving them in fourth place in the standings.
Oleksandr Zinchenko’s recent troubles will be much relieved by his return, but it could be a setback to be without him for up to a month owing to the Asian Cup.
