Arsenal boss Unai Emery defended playing Henrikh Mkhitaryan at right-back in defeat to Europa League opponents Rennes.

The Gunners lost the first-leg of their round 16 tie 3-1 on Thursday night.

Mkhitaryan was switched to right-back after Sokratis' dismissal.

Emery explained: "Well, first and mostly, because we were coming after the last match in Southampton with a very big performance like this full-back. And after this red card, first I wanted to keep the positioning with the players because in the second half we needed fresh players to help more in offensive moments, to take chances, to take options.

"We really didn't create a lot of chances to score the second goal, but I think Micki worked very well and with a good performance. I think there is no problem with Micki, and for example, his 40 or 50 minutes playing like a right-back, he played well."