Johan Djourou could start training again in four weeks' time after Arsenal confirmed he does not need surgery on his dislocated shoulder.
The Switzerland international suffered the injury in the Gunners' FA Cup quarter-final defeat to Manchester United and there were fears initially he could miss the rest of the season.
But after exploratory surgery the club announced he will be able to return sooner than expected.
A statement on the club's website read: "Arsenal defender Johan Djourou has undergone exploratory surgery on his dislocated shoulder, sustained at Old Trafford in the recent FA Cup fixture against Manchester United.
"The club can confirm the positive news that there isn't a need for reconstructive surgery and he will now begin a period of rehabilitation on the shoulder before returning to training in around a month."
