Arsenal were today handed a derby boost with the news that Thomas Vermaelen is in contention to start tomorrow's clash with Chelsea at Stamford Bridge.
It was feared the Belgium international could be ruled out after he limped off during Arsenal's 2-1 Carling Cup win against Bolton with a calf injury.
But tests have shown he was suffering from cramp in his comeback game after two months on the sidelines with an Achilles problem.
Vermaelen trained today and Arsene Wenger faces a tough decision whether to start him against Chelsea in place of either Per Mertesacker or Laurent Koscielny as the Gunners look to continue the improved form that has seen them win seven of their last eight games.
The Arsenal boss said: "I don't know if he is ready for this game yet. I have to think. I feel physically he is not completely ready because he had problems against Bolton but he is close. Thomas always wants to play."
