Cesc Fabregas aims for a quick recovery

The Spanish midfielder sustained ligament damage in a challenge with compatriot Xabi Alonso back in December, and had been expected to face nearly four months on the sidelines.

But after the latest tests on the injury proved positive, Fabregas is now looking to aid Arsenal's ailing title hopes by making a quick return.

"In fact, my leg is getting stronger and the doctors tell me that the ligament has healed," Fabregas wrote in his programme notes ahead of the game against West Ham.

"I will take it step by step, but hopefully I can come back earlier than first expected. However, let's wait and see.

"It's true that now it is about building up the muscle and on Thursday I had a very little jog for the first time, so it is great news and I am happy because I can see a big improvement.

"I will be coming back to England in two weeks' time and, after being assessed by the physios, we will set a target date for my return."

Cesc confident to recover against Manchester United on Saturday

Arsenal spanish talent Cesc Fabregas has challenged his team-mates to prove they are good enough to turn around their recent slump when they face Manchester United at the weekend.

As we know, Arsenal were held to a goalless draw against Fenerbahce in the Champions League on Wednesday night, meaning they have gone three games without a victory.

"We have to keep going," Fabregas admitted. "The next match, against Manchester United, is massive. This is welcomed because it's a big game and big players want to play in big games."

He expressed: "We don't want excuses because we are playing for Arsenal and a lot of players would like to be in our position. We must make sure we give everything on the pitch always."

Gunners coach Arsene Wenger accused referees and opponents of victimising his side following the stalemate with Fenerbahce.

After criticising Stoke for deliberately harming his players at the weekend, Mikael Silvestre is a fresh injury concern after his nose was injured in a challenge involving Semih Senturk.

Wenger said: "Was it intentional? I don't know. He rotated his arm. You must ask the player."

Goalkeeper Manuel Almunia missed the Group G clash with an upset stomach, while Bacary Sagna, Theo Walcott and Emmanuel Adebayor were also sidelined. Wenger is getting increasingly frustrated as he feels different rules apply to his team.

He said: "You can look at the fair play table. Who is top? Arsenal Football Club. We have no lessons to learn from anyone on that front. Look at the team that makes less fouls - it is Arsenal Football Club.

"Who gets the more yellow cards after four or five fouls? The answer in Arsenal Football Club. Some teams get their first yellow card after 15 fouls. I cannot read the (rule) book or something is wrong."