Arsenal's Andrey Arshavin Aims For Return To Action For Manchester City Clash

The Russian forward has been out injured for the last four fixtures, since picking up a calf problem during the first leg of the Champions League quarter-final against Barcelona.

However, Arshavin is making good progress with his fitness and hopes to be available on Saturday as his side entertain Champions League fourth spot chasing Manchester City.

Speaking to Arsenal's official website, Arshavin said: "I am recovering and I hope to be back for Manchester City.

"This season has been tough, tight, sometimes it was even difficult for me and my team but in general it was not bad. Hopefully we will win the last three games."

The 28 year-old also admitted he was disappointed at not being available to help his side in their three recent key defeats to Barcelona, Tottenham and Wigan.

"It was a shame for me," Arshavin said. "I was watching as my team was losing but it was a shame because I could not help my team-mates."

However, Arshavin was keen to point out Arsenal can take a lot of positives from their performances this season and use the experience to challenge for the title next season.

"We have got a lot of goals at the end of the games, we managed to do some comebacks and we have to use that spirit next season," noted Arshavin. "We can fight again next season."

Arsenal fans will relish the prospect of Arshavin being inviolved in first team duties again. The Russian has been in good form this season contributing nine league goals in 28 appearances.