Arsenal Football Club

• Nickname:Gunners
• Founded:1886
• Manager:Arsene Wenger

• Ground:Emirates
• Capacity:60432

Eduardo ready to return

23 Jan 2009 - 08:16:36

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Croatia international Eduardo believes he is ready to make his first-team return for Arsenal after coming through another reserve team game unscathed.

The 25-year-old played the full 90 minutes for the Gunners' reserves against Stoke City's second string, the first time he had completed a match since suffering a horrific injury against Birmingham City last February.

Eduardo told the club's official website: "In my head and everything I am ready. I feel much stronger. I am happy now.

"I think I am ready for the first team but you would have to ask the boss.

"It has been a long time since I've played 90 minutes and now I feel better knowing that I can play a whole game.

"The plan against Portsmouth reserves was to play an hour but we decided with the small injury that I should go off because of the risk in continuing the game. But I am happy now, I played 45 minutes of that game which was good for my confidence.

"I feel very well and I'm training hard every day. Of course I want to come back quick and strong. Now, every game for me is a big step.

"I am happy with the 90 minutes on a very hard pitch with all the hard rain. I needed time in the reserves to get my match fitness back.

"But playing my first game for the first team, I am ready now and I am just waiting for my chance."