Arsenal's improving injury record has helped the squad stay fresh this season, according to Arsene Wenger.
At times last term the number of absentees reached double figures but right now only Abou Diaby (knee) and Mikel Arteta (calf) are carrying injuries - and Arteta was fit until the final moments of Tuesday's win over Wigan Athletic.
"Overall we’ve had a better injury record," Wenger told Arsenal Player.
"We have been hit by some long-term injuries this season but not by little knocks and bruises like the season before. Just now what happened with Arteta is one of the exceptions but overall the fact is we have had fewer muscular injuries."
Olivier Giroud has been suspended for the past three games following a red card at Fulham but he is fit and available to return against Newcastle on Sunday.
"I'm happy to have him back," said Wenger.
"He has been out for a while now and missed some games so he will be full of enthusiasm and can help us at some stage. Is it from the start or coming on? I don't know yet."
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