Arsenal manager Jonas Eidevall has suggested that Vivianne Miedema could be in contention to make her first-team return against Bristol City this weekend.

The Dutch international, who has scored 128 goals during her time with the Gunners, was called up by the Netherlands for the Nations League fixtures later this month. Asked why Miedema had been included, despite the fact she hasn’t played for her club this season, Eidevall said it was because the striker was nearing full fitness:

“I am happy [with the international call-up]. They know that Viv is really close to a return to play. Maybe she can make the squad on Sunday as well for Arsenal.”

“That would be a big thing for us as well. It still makes her a doubt to play competitive games for the Netherlands, but they understand that could be the case, we’ve had that dialogue. They are happy to provide her with an optimal training experience.”

“It is a win-win for us both. Also for Arsenal because Viv could come back before the (Man) City game in a better condition than if she had stayed at home with three outfield players here.”

Miedema has been out for 10 months

The 27-year-old played her last competitive match in December last year, having sustained an anterior cruciate ligament injury during Arsenal’s 1-0 defeat to Lyon in the Champions League.

Miedema confirmed in September that she had returned to team training and it appears that she has now gained enough fitness to take her place on the bench on Sunday.

Arsenal are getting their key players back available

With Beth Mead having made her return to competitive action against Aston Villa last weekend and Leah Williamson involved in team training, the fact that Miedema is also now closing in on her comeback is a huge boost for the Gunners.

After a rather unconvincing start to the season, Eidevall will be delighted to have the trio back in the fold.

Watch the latest WSL Show where our pundits discuss Beth Mead’s return on Shots!TV here