Abou Diaby could make his long-awaited return to competitive football this week after almost a year and a half out through injury.
Diaby last played in a 2-1 League Cup defeat for Arsenal against Southampton in September 2014 and has been sidelined by a calf problem ever since.
However, the midfielder - who joined Marseille in July - has been included in a 19-man squad for the Coupe de France last-16 clash with Trelissac on Thursday, and coach Michel is confident he can play a part.
"We start with a group of 19 players including Abou Diaby," he said on Wednesday. "He trained for several days with the group.
"He feels ready and available. It is a sign of confidence, it is important to him. He could even be on the team sheet."
"I come to the end of my contract next summer," he explained. "I need to show what I am capable of and to try to impress the club.
"And if I am given a contract at the end, it would be fantastic for me, but we need to see what I can do on the pitch."
