The career of Czech midfielder Tomas Rosicky was left hanging in the balance during his long rehabilitation from injury, according to Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger.

The 28 year old has had a nightmare 18 months, in which he has not played a single game as a result of hamstring and knee injuries. He finally made his comeback in Saturday’s friendly with Barnet but after the game Wenger said he had feared for Rosicky’s future.

“There was a time when I was worried Tomas wouldn’t play football again and he felt the same,”

“You have to ask and hope if he will ever get back to where we want him to be and the answer looks like yes” he added.

Rosicky was awarded the captains armband for his long awaited return to action and got through 45 minutes unscathed before being replaced at half-time. After losing Emmanuel Adebayor to Manchester City, Wenger will be keen to have Rosicky available when the new Premiership season gets underway on August 15^th. He said: “Tomas has always led a healthy and dedicated life. Mentally he’s also very strong,”

“We have to manage him well and prepare him well. If he comes through pre-season well he could start the season.”

Wenger will have had plenty of reasons to be cheerful after the Barnet match, despite his side being held to a 2-2 draw. William Gallas joined Rosicky in making a successful return from injury and new £11million signing Thomas Vermaelen was also in action as he completed the full 90 minutes.

The long serving Arsenal manager will be under pressure to pick up some silverware after four barren years but Wenger seemed confident ahead of the new season. He said: “We must trust the players we have. It’s a very important season for us and I believe we are in a very strong position.”