Mikel Arteta has confirmed that Mikel Merino is back in first-team training as he edges closer to making his first appearance in more than three months.

The Spain international underwent surgery on a fractured foot in February and has since faced a race against time to feature again before the end of the campaign.

Whether the 29-year-old is ready to play in either of Arsenal’s two remaining fixtures, Sunday’s dead rubber against Crystal Palace or next weekend’s Champions League final with Paris Saint-Germain, remains unclear. Even if a starting role is beyond him, however, he could still offer Arteta an intriguing option from the bench, particularly given his threat in the penalty area.

“I think Mikel is going to start to train with the group tomorrow,” said Arteta in his first press conference since Arsenal were crowned champions.

“Today he’s done a little bit, it was just a very light session, obviously.”

Spain coach Luis de la Fuente is due to name his World Cup squad on Monday and it remains to be seen whether Merino, who has been such an important figure for his country in recent years, makes the cut.

As for Jurrien Timber, sidelined since the middle of March, he is not yet ready to return to full training but still has time to prove his fitness ahead of the final in Budapest.

With Ben White ruled out because of a knee injury, Arsenal are hopeful the Dutchman can recover in time, although Cristhian Mosquera is another option at right-back.

“Jurrien, let’s hope that he can do the same in the next few days, but he’s still a little bit further behind than Mikel at the moment.”

Speaking to the media later in the day, Timber provided the following update on his rehab:

“It’s been a bit slower than expected, but I’m working really hard to come back. So hopefully, let’s see.

“There’s hope. But like I said, we’ll see. ‘m working really hard. I’m trying really hard. And, obviously, playing in the Champions League final is a dream.

“I will give everything [to play] and then we have the World Cup as well. But obviously, first the Champions League final. It’s going to be amazing anyway.”

So, with nine days to go until Arsenal’s biggest European match in 20 years, the mood is cautiously optimistic. After the celebrations of the last 48 hours, the key is ensuring no further players fall by the wayside before Budapest.