Arsenal academy chief Per Mertesacker has sung the praises of Manchester City assistant manager Mikel Arteta.

The Mirror says Mertesacker has opened the door for Mikel Arteta to return to Arsenal as manager.

Arteta, 37, spent five years at the Emirates as a player and captained the club during that time. His name has come up again with the pressure building on Gunners boss Unai Emery.

"I was his vice-captain at Arsenal and he trusted me," Mertesacker told FourFourTwo.

"I was by his side during team meetings and we had a great bond. I'd love to work with him again, a top guy."

Emery's job is not under immediate threat but that could change if results do not improve.

Arsenal welcome struggling Southampton to the Emirates this weekend before travelling to rock-bottom Norwich.