Jack Wilshere could make his first competitive appearance for 17 months, with his agent saying the midfielder is in the Arsenal squad to face Norwich.
Simon Bayliff wrote on Twitter: "Jack travels to Norwich in the #AFC 1st team squad! Delighted."
Theo Walcott (chest), Kieran Gibbs (thigh) and Laurent Koscielny all miss the trip to Carrow Road.
Norwich are hopeful Robert Snodgrass will overcome an ankle injury suffered on international duty with Scotland.
Defender Steven Whittaker is not yet ready to return from his ankle injury.
MATCH PREVIEW
Jack Wilshere's slow edge towards fitness is gathering pace. The Arsenal and England midfielder played 90 minutes in a behind-closed-door match against a Chelsea XI on Wednesday. His last senior game was for England on 4 June 2011, and judging by England's lacklustre performances against San Marino and Poland, Roy Hodgson could do with him sooner rather later.
Arsenal do not need to rush him though. Santi Cazorla's outstanding form means that Wilshere can been eased very gently back into contention for a place in the side. After so long out nobody is going to put any pressure on the 20-year-old to hurry back, though these last few weeks must feel like an eternity to him.
Arsenal historians' views of their Carrow Road record will depend on whether they are cup half empty or cup half full types. The Gunners have not lost in Norfolk since 1984 - but they have failed to win seven of 12 visits since.
Norwich's current propensity for shipping goals will certainly offer plenty of encouragement to Giroud, Podolski and co, but Arsenal's preparations for this match are bound to have been hampered by having 14 players representing their countries over the last week.
Having a total of 27 full internationals on your books may be a source of pride, but it must also be a source of frustration at times for the coaching staff.
So what of Norwich? They have hinted at playing close to their best on occasion this season, but have lacked a goal
