Arsenal winger Christos Tzolis is pushing to recover from a hamstring injury in time for Sunday’s Premier League encounter against Liverpool at Anfield.
The Greece international has been sidelined since the beginning of October after suffering the injury while representing his country against the Netherlands.
However, according to The Sun, Tzolis has made encouraging progress in his rehabilitation and is working towards a place in Arsenal’s matchday squad.
The winger is hoping to be fit enough for a place on the bench, although his involvement will depend on how he responds during the final stages of his recovery.
His potential return would provide a welcome attacking boost for Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta, who has been dealing with several injury concerns.
Bukayo Saka is expected to remain unavailable for several weeks after suffering a quadriceps injury during Arsenal’s 2-2 Champions League draw against Bayern Munich.
Tzolis could therefore provide additional cover in wide areas as Arsenal prepare for another demanding fixture.
The 24-year-old is not the only player hoping to return after missing Tuesday’s disappointing Carabao Cup elimination against Fleetwood Town.
Declan Rice, Noni Madueke and Mikel Merino are also targeting involvement in Sunday’s match.
Rice experienced hamstring discomfort during Arsenal’s 2-0 victory over Everton last weekend, prompting the club to manage his workload carefully.
The England international was subsequently rested against Fleetwood, although there is growing confidence that he will be available at Anfield.
Madueke, meanwhile, missed the cup fixture because of an ankle problem, with Arsenal unwilling to risk aggravating the injury.
The winger is expected to recover following several days of rest and could replace Saka on the right flank.
Merino’s absence against Fleetwood was caused by illness rather than injury, and the Spaniard could return if he recovers sufficiently.
His availability would offer Arteta another midfield option, while his ability to operate further forward could prove useful.
Arsenal’s attacking struggles were evident against Fleetwood, where Viktor Gyokeres scored the equaliser but the Gunners eventually lost 5-3 on penalties.
The defeat was compounded by Max Dowman’s red card, although Arsenal have appealed the teenager’s dismissal.
Dowman’s availability for Liverpool remains uncertain while the disciplinary process continues.
Arsenal have not won a Premier League match at Anfield since September 2012, making Sunday’s encounter particularly significant.
Tzolis is now racing against time to strengthen Arteta’s attacking options, with a place among the substitutes appearing the most realistic possibility.