The Switzerland international - who has become synonymous with disciplinary problems at the Emirates - missed clashes with Norwich City, Burnley and AFC Wimbledon after seeing red against Manchester City last month.
Arsenal claimed three wins with three clean sheets from those fixtures while Xhaka sat on the naughty step, but Arteta has hailed the former Gunners captain as he seeks to force his way back into the first XI.
Speaking to the media ahead of the North London derby, Arteta said: "He came back and he was flying. He really looks after himself. As always he was giving the maximum and the best possible attitude to win matches."
The Gunners boss also hailed the visit of Tottenham as "the most special game" of Arsenal's season ahead of his first Emirates North London derby with a full crowd of supporters.
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