Santi Cazorla returns to full Arsenal training for first time in 19 months after battling back from an Achilles injury

The Spanish midfielder has undergone numerous surgeries since sustaining an Achilles injury, including a skin graft from his arm, but looks to be edging closer to a return.

Cazorla, 33, has recently expressed his desire to return to Arsene Wenger's side before the end of the campaign.

He moved a step closer to first-team action ahead of tomorrow's clash with Burnley by joining his team-mates in the sunshine at London Colney earlier.

And he could not keep the smile off his face, even posing for a thumbs-up with Jack Wilshere, as the Gunners were put through their paces.

It comes after he travelled to his former club Real Oviedo earlier in the week as part of his rehabilitation.

Whether he will be ready to take on the Clarets at Emirates remains to be seen.

But with a midweek trip to Leicester followed by a home clash with Leicester next Sunday, Wenger's last in charge of Arsenal, he will no doubt be going full throttle to ensure he gets some minutes before the curtain comes down on the season.

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Speaking to AS last month, Cazorla said: "I’ve still got some way to go because after being sidelined for 18 months, everything has to be done in its own time.

"But the sensations I have keep getting better and I’m feeling optimist about the future.

"The objective is to play some part with the team before the season ends, but we have to take things carefully.

"After being out for so long it will take a while to get back into form, it’s a real struggle, but when you have been out like I have, you also notice pains elsewhere – apart from what I’ve had with my tendon."

Despite suffering defeat at Atletico Madrid in the Europa League semi-final on Thursday, the mood still appeared to relaxed at Arsenal's HQ.

And no doubt the return of Cazorla will provide a boost going into the final three matches of the season as Wenger looks to finish his 22-year reign in winning fashion.