A number of the champions' international contingent have returned from duty and focus immediately turns to the huge clash with Arsenal on Saturday.

Club photographer Sharon Latham and her lens take you behind the scenes at Thursday’s session at Carrington...

BIBS-NESS TIME: The session is about to get serious as Pablo prepares for a seven-a-side game. 

SILVA BULLET: They don’t come along very often but a David Silva headed goal is well worth celebrating...

... and why not?!

SAMBA TIME: You wouldn’t want to be in the way of this rocket of a shot from Fernandinho!

GIANT LEAP FOR SAM KIND: Samir Nasri does well to hurdle an on-rushing Willy Caballero.

THE THICK OF IT: Competition runs high during a game of keep ball.

AK47: Fresh from a blistering goal for his country in midweek, Aleks Kolarov always has time for a smile on the training pitch.

QUALITY FINISH: A cultured, side-footed strike from Frank Lampard in training.

LET THE GAMES BEGIN: The manager is ready to kick-off another drill.

BACARY BLAST: The Frenchman unleashes a powerful effort towards goal.

BELTER: We all know he can hit them but there’s no let up, even in training, from Sergio!

GOOD WORK: The boss is clearly pleased with what he’s seen as the session concludes.