Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger is looking to skipper Thomas Vermaelen to make the most of their injury problems.
The captain's first-team appearances have been restricted this season due to the fine form of Laurent Koscielny and Per Mertesacker.
But with Koscielny sidelined through injury, Vermaelen has stepped in at the heart of the Gunners' defence and is likely to continue there for Saturday's Premier League clash with Manchester City.
"We know Thomas has paid a heavy price for having Laurent and Per who worked well together," Wenger told Arsenal Player. "But he has an opportunity to show how good he is and I'm sure he will take it."
