Mertesacker in contention for Gunners

Arsenal centre-back Per Mertesacker could be available after illness for the New Year’s Day trip to Southampton.

Czech midfielder Tomas Rosicky was left on the bench for Saturday’s 7-3 win over Newcastle, so may also come back into contention to feature at St Mary’s.

Defender Andre Santos (stomach muscle) and midfielder Abou Diaby (thigh) are expected to start training again this week.

Provisional Squad: Szczesny, Gibbs, Vermaelen, Mertesacker, Sagna, Arteta, Cazorla, Wilshere, Oxlade-Chamberlain, Podolski, Walcott, Mannone, Ramsey, Coquelin, Giroud, Gervinho, Djourou, Jenkinson, Arshavin.