Jack Wilshere and Mikel Arteta to Return for Liverpool Trip

Arsenal have been handed a major injury boost ahead of the weekend trip to Liverpool with the news that midfield pair Jack Wilshere and Mikel Arteta will both return.

Wilshere has missed the last two weeks after being forced out of the FA Cup fourth round win over Coventry City while Arteta was a doubt for the visit to Anfield after picking up a knock against Crystal Palace.

But both are set to be available for Arsenal as they travel to Liverpool on Saturday lunchtime, hoping to extend their lead at the Premier League summit.

"We might have Jack Wilshere back for Liverpool, Mikel Arteta will be alright," said Wenger.

The meeting with Liverpool is the first of two duels with Brendan Rodgers' men in as many weeks, with the sides colliding next weekend in the FA Cup fifth round.

Arsenal prevailed in the league meeting in November at the Emirates Stadium through goals from Santi Cazorla and Aaron Ramsey, the latter of which will be unavailable for the foreseeable future.

After Chelsea beat Manchester City on Monday Arsenal are two points clear at the top of the Premier League but face a tough run of games which includes the visit of Manchester United in mid-week and the Champions League last 16 tie against Bayern Munich.

"It is a good opportunity [and] moment for us to win a big game because we have a tough predicted month," added Wenger. "I think we are on a good run and the best way is to continue that and keep the confidence level high.

"When you're in a good position to fight for something, of course the closer you get to the end, every game becomes vital. It's a massive month for us.

"We fought very hard to be in this position. Let's enjoy it and give out best."

Left back Kieran Gibbs is also calling on Arsenal to kick-start their hard run of games with a win against Liverpool.

"I think it would make a big statement if we won there - just like it did when we played Liverpool at home," the England international said.

"Before that game, we had not played any big games and although we were sitting at the top of the league, people were saying, 'There's a big game coming now, that will put it into perspective.'

"It will be like that again because we have got a lot of big games coming up, so it will be another test. As the weeks go on, we are just going to be put under a bigger and bigger test.

"It is not often you get to play Manchester United, Liverpool and Bayern Munich, twice, in less than two weeks. So it will be great to be a part of it - playing against the best teams in the world.

"Everyone enjoys the big games and this is just another big game to show what we can go and do."