It's the news all Arsenal fans have been desperate to hear - two first-team stars, Hector Bellerin and Kieran Tierney, are close to a return. The pair have both been dealing with long-term injuries that meant Unai Emery's defence has been looking rather light in the early stages of the 2019/20 season.Bellerin has been out of action for eight months, recovering from a series knee injury he picked up against Chelsea back in January. Tierney, who was one of the Gunners' big summer signings, has been dealing with a groin injury that meant he wasn't able to feature in pre-season. Both men played 62 minutes for Arsenal's under-23 side on Friday night against Wolves. They came through unscathed, which will be a massive boost for Emery. 

After the match, Bellerin reacted to his appearance.

"Hey everyone, after eight long months, I'm finally in the red and white and on the pitch!" the Spaniard said while recording a video posted on Arsenal's Twitter account.

"It's been a tough period but I'm back better than ever and can't wait to be at the Emirates." 

"Class to be back!" Tierney then followed up, with an Instagram post of his own. 

Although it's not clear when Bellerin and Tierney will be cleared for first-team action, it can't be long now.

Their returns will come at a good time for Arsenal. Emery's side were poor at the back once again last weekend during a 2-2 draw with Watford. 

A 3-0 win away to Eintracht Frankfurt in the Europa League on Thursday helped paper over the cracks, but Emery will want his players available for a big domestic fixture that's coming up.

Arsenal visit Manchester United on September 30 and should Bellerin and Tierney be fit, that would be a huge bonus for the Gunners.