Ilkay Gundogan sets out Man City challenge for 'very strong' Arsenal

Ilkay Gundogan insists that Manchester City will be risking all when they take on Arsenal.

The Premier League champions take on the league leaders in a rearranged game that looks even more tempting than it did back in autumn when it was originally scheduled. Arsenal have been at the top of the table for most of the season, yet City could dislodge them with three points at the Emirates on Wednesday night.

There is still a long way to go in a season that is not as far on as teams normally are in February because of the break for the World Cup, yet the two meetings still to be played between the top two are set to have a significant say on where the trophy ends up come the end of May. City welcome Arsenal in April, but head to North London on the back of a reassuring 3-1 win over Aston Villa following turbulence on and off the pitch in recent weeks.

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Gundogan is expecting Wednesday's match to be one of the most difficult City face all season, although while a draw would likely satisfy the Blues at this stage of the season the club captain says they will be going for all three points to inflict Arsenal's first home defeat of the season. With one of the toughest challenges expected, the reigning champions hope to carry some confidence from beating Villa.

“Most probably it is going to be one of the toughest games we have played in recent years, against a very strong Arsenal side with a very similar style of play with a great manager and a great team. With this win (against Villa), I think we are ready to go on Wednesday," said Gundogan.

"That is the target. We will travel to London to try to win the game and get the three points, even