Mesut Ozil returns to Arsenal training after being struck down with flu and missing Christmas fixtures

MESUT OZIL handed Arsenal a boost as he returned to training with Arsene Wenger’s squad on Thursday.

The German star has not played since Boxing Day after suffering flu over the festive season.

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Former Real Madrid ace Ozil missed the victory over Crystal Palace and the draw at Bournemouth but now appears to be set for a first-team return this weekend.

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Posting a picture of him at the club’s London Colney training ground, he wrote on Instagram: “Returning to Arsenal training ground after my flu. Not yet at 100% but I’m back.”

The Gunners travel to Preston in the FA Cup third round this weekend and Wenger will be hoping to have his World Cup-winning talisman available for selection.

The French boss has clearly been missing Ozil around the place.

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Speaking about the 28-year-old, he said after the 3-3 comeback against the Cherries on Tuesday:  "I haven't seen him for a week.

"It was an easy decision [not to include him]. He is still in bed.

"He's not available and I don't think he will be available for the next game as he hasn't done anything for a week."