Arsene Wenger has hinted that Jack Wilshere could make a return from injury in Saturday’s crucial Premier League match at Liverpool.
The England midfielder missed the Gunners' previous outing – a 2-0 victory against Crystal Palace – and Wenger says that having him back for the trip to Merseyside could be a key factor as his side look to hold on to top spot.
"We might have Wilshere back," Wenger admitted. "It is important to have as many players back as possible in the squad.
Liverpool v Arsenal
Barclays Premier League
12.45pm, Saturday 8 February
Anfield, Liverpool
Live on BT Sport
"In the big games it is always decided by having the complete squad available."
Wilshere's return to the fray will be welcome news to Arsenal fans.
Mathieu Flamini is suspended while both Aaron Ramsey and deadline day loan signing Kim Kallstrom are still several weeks away from recovery.
And Wenger highlighted the importance of having players like Wilshere available for selection.
The 22-year-old has been in fine form so far this term and has added goals to his game, with five for the season to date. His strikes have included an match-winning brace in the 2-0 UEFA Champions League victory against Marseille in November.
Wilshere have five goals so far this season
Ahead of the trip to Anfield on Saturday, Wenger's men sit top of the table in what is shaping up to be a gripping title race – with just two points separating the top three of Arsenal, Manchester City and Chelsea.
Not far behind the leading pack, however, are Liverpool and the Arsenal boss said he knows his team are in for a tough test and insisted he is fully focused on the task in hand.
Wenger will also be wary of Reds striker Luis Saurez, a player he was keen on signing last summer.
He added: "For us the important thing is to win the game. If you want to win the game what is for sure is that he is one of the players that you have to keep quiet."