Arsenal star Mikel Merino spotted at their training ground yesterday without protective boot or crutches | OneFootball

Arsenal midfielder Mikel Merino was spotted at the training ground yesterday in a huge boost for manager Mikel Arteta.

The Spaniard is now no longer wearing a protective boot or on crutches, according to the London Standard.

Merino last played in January and has undergone surgery on a foot injury he sustained against Manchester United.

The Arsenal star broke a bone in his right foot and was expected to be out of action for the remainder of the season.

However, club had always hoped Merino would return to full training before the end of the campaign, and it appears he is closing in on a return.

He has not started training but seeing him without the protective boot or crutches he had worn in recent weeks is a huge boost for the Gunners and Spain.

It is unclear whether the 29-year-old will play for Arsenal again this season, but Arteta could do with him following recent struggles.

They have played 19 games since his injury, but a run of one win in their last five games across all competitions is a huge concern for them.

Merino has bagged six goals and three assists in 33 games for Arsenal this term, featuring as a number nine at times.

They could do with his versatility and quality heading into the most crucial parts of their Premier League and Champions League campaigns.

The Gunners take on Manchester City at the Etihad Stadium tomorrow and are desperate to return to winning ways after their lead at the top of the table was reduced to six points.

They host Newcastle United afterwards, followed by a trip to Spain to take on Atletico Madrid in the first-leg of their Champions League semi-final tie.

The results of those three games could determine their season, and Arteta will hope his men can step up in the absence of Merino and other injured stars.