Krystian Bielik is nearing a return from a shoulder injury he picked up at the start of the season.

The defender has been absent this season after damaging his shoulder in an u23 game against Manchester City in August.

The injury required surgery and prevented him from going out on loan to one of the several clubs who were interested in him.

However, according to Arsenal Youth, Bielik is expected to return to training shortly, along with midfielder Gedion Zelalem.

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The Polish u21 international spent the second-half of last season on loan at Birmingham City and was highly impressive.

He was meant to go on loan for this season, possibly to a Bundesliga side, but his injury prevented any move from happening.

The expectation is that he will feature for the Arsenal u23s in the new year, before going out on loan for the second half of the season should he be fit enough.

Bielik is one of the most talented defenders at the club has been on the fringes of the first-team. He may have featured in the Europa League and Carabao Cup this season had he been fit. The 19-year-old has made just two first-team appearances for Arsenal.