Van Persie returns for Gunners

Arsenal captain Robin van Persie will return to the squad following an extended break for Sunday’s Barclays Premier League trip to Swansea.

Thierry Henry, on loan from the New York Red Bulls, will again be in contention having come off the bench to score in the FA Cup win over Leeds, while defender Johan Djourou is available after suspension.

Midfielder Tomas Rosicky and centre-back Per Mertesacker are battling to overcome a virus.

Strikers Marouane Chamakh and Gervinho are away at the African Nations Cup. Defenders Francis Coquelin (hamstring), Thomas Vermaelen (calf), Kieran Gibbs (groin), Bacary Sagna (ankle), Carl Jenkinson (back) and Andre Santos (ankle) are all still out, along with midfielders Abou Diaby (hamstring) and Jack Wilshere (ankle).

Provisional Squad: Szczesny, Koscielny, Djourou, Mertesacker, Miquel, Song, Ramsey, Arteta, Walcott, Van Persie, Henry, Almunia, Rosicky, Arshavin, Squillaci, Benayoun, Oxlade-Chamberlain, Park.