Diaby - I had no reaction to thigh problem

Abou Diaby says he feels “physically good” and had no reaction to his thigh injury during Sunday’s match against Manchester City.

The France international made his first Arsenal appearance since September 29 against the champions after Mikel Arteta was ruled out with a calf strain.

The 26-year-old featured for the under-21s against West Brom four days prior to the City game, and admits it was a useful run-out.

“It helped me because when you come back you need games and a bit of rhythm to be fully back,” Diaby told Arsenal.com. "It was very good, and I am pleased I played in that game.

“I feel good physically. Of course I have been out for a long time so I am not at my best, but importantly I did not get any reaction [against Manchester City]. This is good for the future.

“I knew the day before the game that I was starting, so I just had to prepare for that. I had been out for a long time, so I did not expect to be on the pitch so quickly. But it doesn't matter, you just need to be prepared and see how it goes.”