SQUAD UPDATE PRE ARSENAL

The January transfer window saw us continue to refine our squad to remain competitive in the Premier League with plenty of action in terms of players leaving the club who haven't appeared much this season including Simon Adignra who we only signed in the Summer. The gaffer appears to be satisfied with the payers at his disposal and with Xhaka unavailable to feature this weekend he has called on the other lads to step up in his absence.

ROTATION AVAILABLE

"We have a small group at the end of the window, 21 first team players plus three goalkeepers. The players know that they will have opportunities, especially with the FA Cup. This is positive for the players and we have different options now in terms of formation."

XHAKA

"Not yet. He’s going well. He’s a really good player and we want our best players on the pitch. It’s not unusual to have injuries so we have to deal with the situation. For the players in this part of the pitch, it’s a chance to step up. Hopefully he can recover quickly and we can have the best version of him for the end of the season."

LEADERS TO STEP UP DURING XHAKA ABSENCE

"The spine of the team is very important. You can’t build a strong leader in just one second, it’s not possible. We need to split this leadership, it has to come from everywhere."

BROBBEY IN GOOD FORM

"An example to everyone in the club. He just needed a bit of time, for his fitness and his connection with team mates. His confidence is growing."