Manchester City striker Emmanuel Adebayor wants to face former club Arsenal in their Carling Cup quarterfinal.

The Mirror says Gunners striker Robin van Persie has already admitted he is keen for a showdown with the man who raked his face in the Premier League clash between the two sides back in September.

Adebayor has responded by telling friends he is "more than ready" for the contest, expected to be screened live by Sky Sports next month.

Nervous City chiefs have already told Adebayor to keep a low profile in recent weeks and are fearful that a repeat of September's powder-keg affair could result in another suspension.

But a source close to the player said last night: "Manu doesn't think he has done anything wrong so why should he have to hide?

"If Manchester City want to win then they will need to play their best players and Manu is one of them."