Emery Keen to Bring Xhaka Back at Arsenal

Unai Emery has suggested that he could welcome Granit Xhaka back into the Arsenal squad for the meeting with Southampton on Saturday after confirming that the pair have held positive talks.

Xhaka hit the headlines after his backlash at Gunners supporters as he exited the pitch after being substituted in the 2-2 draw with Crystal Palace at Emirates Stadium.

The Switzerland international has not featured for the north Londoners since, with speculation rife that he may even have played his last game for the club and that they would move him on in January.

Emery has rejected that notion, however, expressing that he is keen to bring him back into the team and that he is confident the midfielder will win back the affection of the fans.

He told reporters on Thursday: "He is coming back better in his mind, his mindset is better to help us and to be closer to playing when we need him. I spoke to him this morning and we had a very good conversation.

"He trained very well before the international break and he trained very well this morning. My objectives don’t change from when I spoke to you before."