Scottish international Nick De Luca has staged a remarkable recovery from back surgery to be fit for Edinburgh’s Magners League opener at Cardiff on Friday.

The 25-year old centre, who boasts 11 caps for Scotland, went under the knife just over four weeks ago to solve an abdominal problem.

But De Luca has been persistent in his recuperation and is rewarded with a place on the substitute’s bench for the trip to the Welsh capital.

Gunners coach Rob Moffat paid tribute to De Luca’s attitude but warned his players there would be no room for error against the EDF Energy Cup holders.

“It’s great to see Nick back in the squad,” said Moffat, who replaced Scotland boss Andy Robinson as head coach at Edinburgh in July.

“The medical staff have really earned their wage getting him back so quickly but it has a lot to do with Nick’s attitude in wanting to get back so soon.

“It’s going to be a very physical game in Cardiff and we know they’re a strong, powerful outfit.

“But if we can match them physically we will be able to play our own game.”

New winger Tim Visser is expected to start for the Gunners but neither Ross Ford or Mike Blair are deemed ready for the season following their Lions exploits this summer.