Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has insisted midfielder Santi Cazorla’s long-term injury is not career-threatening.

Speaking on Thursday morning at the club’s training ground London Colney, Wenger revealed that the Spaniard has started light training but has not put a date as to when the creative playmaker with superb technique will be available for selection.

The popular former Villareal man has been out for more than 12 months with a serious achilles’ issue.

Wenger said: “He’s having his first run today.

“The flexibility of his ankle is good and his mobility is good.

“It’s difficult to set a time [when he will return to first team action].

“But it will not be before Christmas.

“I hope after Christmas he will be available.”

Arsenal play Bournemouth on Saturday at the Emirates.