Arteta faces a number of big calls when it comes to his team selection. Myles Lewis-Skelly, who actually made his debut in the reverse fixture at the Etihad in September, is available after his red card from last weekend’s win at Wolves was overturned.

In each of the past four Premier League campaigns, Arsenal have recorded more points than the season before: from a nadir of 56 points (eighth) after Arteta took over midway through the 2019-20, to 61 points (eighth), to 69 points (fifth), to 84 points (second) to 89 points (second) last season, just two points behind champions Manchester City.

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has shut down wild conspiracy theories that his side’s matches are being manipulated by bias referees – but defended his right to criticise decisions he does not agree with.