Laurent Koscielny fit to start against Paris Saint-Germain in Arsenal's Champions League opener

Arsene Wenger has confirmed Laurent Koscielny is available for selection for Arsenal's opening Champions League clash against Paris Saint-Germain.

Koscielny, 31, struck a wonderful overhead kick to help the Gunners' secure a 2-1 win over Southampton on Saturday (10 September), but took a heavy blow to the face in the closing stages of the match.

The France international suffered swelling but was treated by the club's medical staff. He trained with the club as normal on Monday before departing with the squad for Paris. Speaking to the press later that evening, Wenger said: "He [Koscielny] is alright, he had a big knock on his face but recovered quite well. I was was concerned after the game [against Southampton] he wouldn't be available, but he's alright."

Olivier Giroud, meanwhile, is still to start a game for the Gunners this season, with new signing Lucas Perez filling in upfront against Saints. The France international was one of a number of players given an extended summer break following his lengthy Euro 2016 campaign, but Wenger could recall him to his starting XI for Tuesday's clash at the Parc de Princes.

"I have not decided yet [on Giroud], the players don't know the team. We have 24 more hours. Is he ready to start? He is close now."

Aaron Ramsey has not played since the opening game of the season, a 4-3 defeat to Liverpool, where he suffered a hamstring injury. Like Koscielny, the Welshman trained with the Arsenal first-team in London on Monday morning and could also be edging closer to a comeback.

Arsenal's run of failing to top their Champions League group continued last season, feeding them into a last 16 clash with Barcelona that they lost 5-1 on aggregate.

PSG, now managed by Europa League-winning coach Unai Emery, saw off Chelsea in their last 16 encounter, but were eliminated at the quarter-final stage by Manchester City.