Arsenal striker Eduardo could be set to make an early return from the horrific leg break he suffered against Birmingham in February.Eduardo suffered a compound fracture of the left leg following a tackle from Blues defender Martin Taylor early in the 2-2 draw at St Andrews.

It was feared the Brazilian-born Croatian could be out of action for up to 15 months but the striker has revealed his rehabilitation is progressing much better than expected.

It is hoped 25-year-old could return to the UK from Rio De Janeiro where has been recovering, as early as July and could be back in training before the start of the Premier League season.

Eduardo told Croatian sports daily Sportske Novosti: "I am returning to Europe from Brazil at the beginning of August, perhaps even the end of July.

"Doctors tell me by then I will be fully recovered and able to play football again. I hope so too.

"I'm feeling well and my rehabilitation is going better than I would ever have hoped."

The Croatian international is also optimistic over the prospects of Slaven Bilic's side in this summer's European Championships.

"I think the boys will play very well without me.

"They'll get through the group and, after that, we'll have to wait and see."

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