It’s been a flat week for Arsenal fans, just a day after drawing Bayern Munich in the Champions League last 16, Arsene Wenger’s side suffered a defeat to Ronald Koeman’s Everton.

It appears the Dutchman has cast a spell over Wenger. The 66-year-old has only beaten the Everton boss twice in 12 meetings.

As the saying goes ‘one game at a time’, however, Arsenal fans can carry plenty of hope following Sunday’s trip to The Etihad. The Gunners face just one of the leagues current top 10 over the next six league games.

Arsenal will meet West Brom, Palace, Bournemouth, Swansea, Burnley and Watford before a trip to Stamford Bridge in February.

The Gunners are now bidding to stay in touch with league leaders Chelsea who extended the gap at the top to six points following their 1-0 victory over Sunderland.

What more added incentive does Wenger’s side need than to deal a huge blow to Pep Guardiola’s title hopes.

Perhaps the boss will turn to some fresh legs to overcome Manchester City on Sunday.

With that being said, check out these TWO fringe players who Wenger must start at City…

ROB HOLDING

The youngster has confidence after registering an impressive performance in Basel last week. Though his introduction is more necessary as a result of Gabriel’s defensive concerns.

Despite a number of positive displays at right-back, the Brazilian is anything but reliable in the centre. He looked just as precarious against Everton as he did at centre-back last campaign.

OLIVIER GIROUD

The 30 year-old has scored on his last two visits to The Etihad. Though it seems strange to recognise the forward as a fringe player, Giroud has held a regular place on the Arsenal bench this season.

The rumours are that the Frenchman is close to agreeing a contract extension with The Gunners. Let’s hope this positive news will help deliver a positive performance.