Arsenal are optimistic that Laurent Koscielny will return to action for the Champions League clash with Bayern Munich later this month, sources have told ESPN FC.
Koscielny, who suffered a hamstring injury in Arsenal's shock 3-2 defeat at home to Olympiakos, was expected to be out of action for three weeks.
The central defender missed last weekend's 3-0 win over Manchester United and he was forced to withdraw from international duty with France this week.
However, Koscielny is making a quicker than expected recovery and Arsenal are hopeful he will be fit for the Bayern match at home on Oct. 20.
Arsenal's medical staff are working overtime to help Koscielny recover to full fitness, with Gunners boss Arsene Wenger keen to have the 30-year-old back for the Bayern test.
Koscielny is unlikely to be risked for the trip to Watford after the international break with the upcoming Champions League match a must-win. Arsenal are bottom of Group F having lost both of their opening two games in Europe.