Former Arsenal midfielder Abou Diaby "ready" for Marseille debut

Abou Diaby of Arsenal takes a shot on goal during the FA Cup with Budweiser fifth round match between Arsenal and Blackburn Rovers at Emirates Stadium on February 16, 2013
© Getty Images
Former Arsenal midfielder Abou Diaby could make his Marseille debut on Thursday, 17 months after his last competitive appearance.

Abou Diaby has been included in Marseille's matchday squad for the Coupe de France tie against third-tier outfit Trelissac tomorrow.

The 29-year-old is in line to play for the first time in 17 months, with Marseille coach Michel saying that he is ready to make his debut after joining the club from Arsenal in the summer.

"He has trained with the squad in recent days and he feels ready," Michel told the club website.

"It is important for the player's morale, it can give him confidence. He will be on the team sheet."

Michel added that Diaby still needs another month of training before he is match-fit, so if he does play it will be from the substitutes' bench.

Abou Diaby of Arsenal takes a shot on goal during the FA Cup with Budweiser fifth round match between Arsenal and Blackburn Rovers at Emirates Stadium on February 16, 2013
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