It’s hard not to feel for Abou Diaby.

Once regarded as Arsenal’s next Patrick Vieira, a late challenge by Sunderland’s Dan Smith proved the catalyst for a career riddled with injuries, setbacks and upsets.

He left Arsenal – or the club’s injury table at least – to join Marseille last summer. And now after a whopping 506 days off the pitch he is set to make his return to football against Trelissac in the French Cup tomorrow (Thursday February 11). The Ligue 1 outfit beat Trelissac 2-0 in their only competitive meeting in 2010 – back them to win by the same scoreline tomorrow at 43/10.  (price correct as of Wednesday February 10, 5pm)

As for Dan Smith, he went on to sign for at least ten other clubs including Huddersfield, Aberdeen, Gateshead and Australian fifth-tier outfit Holland Park Hawks. Sunderland fans report he is now a free agent.

Here’s how Twitter reacted to the news of Abou Diaby’s return:

Surreal press conference in Marseille as Steven Fletcher graces room with his Scottish accent before Michel announces: ‘Abou Diaby is ready’

— Matt Spiro (@mattspiro) February 10, 2016

“Good cross… DIABYYYYYYY!” @AbouVDIABY 1-0 Liverpool, on this day in 2010https://t.co/WOSnuXVBXx

— Arsenal FC (@Arsenal) February 10, 2016

Will forever feel sorry for Abou Diaby. Without injuries, he could have been one hell of a player.

— Arsenal News (@__arsenalnews_) February 10, 2016

Abou Diaby about to play his first game in 500+ days. No one can deny his commitment. Good luck.

— Marty McElwee (@iLikeMarty) February 10, 2016

Abou Diaby declared fit to play today and will pick up an injury tomorrow.

— CD. (@CONNOR_DIEY) February 10, 2016

 

BREAKING: Abou Diaby declared fit to play! pic.twitter.com/B5yzl7UFZp https://t.co/V423Q1XY5c pic.twitter.com/iJUdoBDoSK

— Spurs Tickets (@TicketHotspur) February 10, 2016

The Marseille medical staff prepare for Abou Diaby’s comeback tonight. It’s set to be his first match since Sept’14 pic.twitter.com/ClbNhjZwM2

— Betting Directory (@ukBettingNews) February 11, 2016