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Daily Mirror
Daily Mirror
Sport
Alex Smith

Granit Xhaka starts for Arsenal for first time since fan bust-up

Granit Xhaka has been selected by Unai Emery for the first time since his altercation with Arsenal fans.

He will start for the Gunners in their Europa League clash with Eintracht Frankfurt.

Xhaka hasn't appeared for Arsenal since October 27 when he shouted "f*** off" to supporters after receiving a negative response to his substitution against Crystal Palace.

The Swiss midfielder was jeered and sarcastically cheered when his number was lofted in the 2-2 draw with Palace.

He cupped his ears to the reaction, gestured to fans, screamed "f*** off" as he left the pitch, tore his shirt off and stormed down the tunnel.

(Action Images via Reuters)

Xhaka had his captaincy stripped off him for the incident and he was forced to pen an apology.

Emery had hinted at Xhaka's inclusion during his press conference on Wednesday.

The Spaniard said: "He's in the group and he has the possibility to play. I hope every supporter supports him. Xhaka's comeback is going to be important for us.

(Visionhaus)

"As a coach each moment in my career is difficult. This is a very good but very hard job.

"When you are winning you feel the support for everybody.

"I believe in us, I believe in the players. I know I am going to work very hard to come back to the performance."

Arsenal XI vs Frankfurt: Martinez; Mustafi, Luiz, Sokratis; Chambers, Xhaka, Willock, Tierney; Martinelli, Aubameyang, Saka

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