Koscielny admits first team return was 'rushed' after Achilles injury | OneFootball

Laurent Koscielny admits his first team return was “a bit rushed” due to a sudden defensive injury crisis.

The 33-year-old ruptured his Achilles in May but returned ahead of schedule, featuring in each of Arsenal’s last five games.

However, with Rob Holding, Shkodran Mustafi and Konstantinos Mavropanos all on the treatment table, Koscielny has arguably returned at the perfect time.

“Everything is going very well,” he told RMC. “I do not have any pain which is very encouraging.

“My return was a bit rushed due to injuries, so physically things were hard, but overall I feel good.

“It’s a little harder to tie up every three days, I’m trying to be careful not to hurt myself and be out for weeks.

“I am gradually resuming possession of all my means and confidence,” the Frenchman added. “My pace is slowly coming back.

“Wishes for me? I will say good health! 2018 has been a bit more complicated for me so good health.”

Arsenal travel to Blackburn in the FA Cup on Saturday, before returning to Premier League action against West Ham on January 12.