Rosicky out of Monaco clash but Gabriel returns for Arsenal

Along with the Czech playmaker, Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain remains sidelined from Arsene Wenger's squad for the vital Champions League clash

Arsene Wenger has confirmed that January signing Gabriel is fit again and available for Arsenal's Champions League clash with Monaco, though Tomas Rosicky does not make the squad.

The Czech playmaker is suffering from illness and will play no part in the Gunners' bid to overturn a 3-1 first-leg deficit, but Gabriel, who joined from Villarreal, is included in the squad. Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain remains sidelined.

With the squad otherwise unchanged from the side that hammered West Ham, and buoyed by the return of Gabriel, Wenger is confident his side can score the three unanswered goals they need to progress to the quarter-finals.

"Monaco are in a very strong position, but we have the experience, the desire and the belief we can do it - so let's give everything to do it," the French coach told reporters.

"We have to show a different face, but you need to embrace the challenge. They have a good side, but we are confident. We want to put things right [after the first leg].

"The statistics are against us. But we must do everything to make sure the statistics lie. But, even with a one per cent chance, we have to play our game."

Arsenal's trip to the Stade Louis II marks a return to Monaco for Wenger, who spent seven years in charge of the club from 1987-1994, though the veteran manager insists he will not be overawed by his homecoming.

"For me it is a bit special. But I have enough experience to make sense of things, and that is what is most important," he continued.

"My pleasure is to do the best I can. My biggest pleasure would be coming here without pressure, to see friends. But I have great respect for this club."