Photo: Santi Cazorla finally back on the pitch after six-month injury lay-off

Santi Cazorla, I’m sure many out there have not heard that name in ages.  The 30-year-old Spanish international has been side-lined since 29 November last year which is roughly 6 months with an injured knee in a 1-1 draw against Norwich City.

Cazorla played for 60 minutes in front of the fans and most importantly, Arsene Wenger, as he made a comeback from injury for Arsenal’s U21s against Blackburn Rovers.

Yes he played for the U21 side it’s seems odd however, it is allowed as each team can have 3 players overage. Obviously Blackburn Rovers won’t see much fairness in that as Tomas Rosicky and Callum Chambers also started.

Tomas Rosicky also featured for Arsenal’s U21 side
Arsenal surely had a missing puzzle piece in midfield as they had to soldier on without Cazorla. Nacho Monreal claimed earlier in the month that Santi Cazorla’s absence hindered Arsenals title hopes.

Although he is back for the Gunners it seems his return will come too late to help the Gunners achieve the Premier League title as Leicester have already stolen that crown.

Arsene Wenger with CEO Ivan Gazidis during the U21 match
However, the midfielder can accomplish personal and international hopes as his injury free status means he is back in contention for a spot on Spain’s team that will partake in the Euros. He currently holds 77 caps for Spain which shows his contribution to the side is crucial.

Cazorla will be hoping he can string together more games for the senior squad especially to ensure that a Champions League spot is reached as they take on Manchester City this weekend.