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Wenger backs Arsenal to bounce back against Schalke

Arsene Wenger admits defeat to Norwich was a 'very bad moment' for Arsenal © PA Photos

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Arsene Wenger has called on Arsenal to get the disappointment of a "very bad moment'' at Norwich out of their system by taking a big step towards qualifying for the Champions League knockout phase with a win against Schalke on Wednesday night.

The Gunners slipped 10 points behind Premier League leaders Chelsea when they went down 1-0 at Carrow Road following a lacklustre display on their return from the international break. Wenger, though, feels the visit of the Germans, who are second in Group B, offers the perfect opportunity for swift redemption.

"We have got over it and we will focus on our next game, that is the only way to deal with it, to put the disappointment behind us and focus on Schalke,'' Wenger said.

"As a team, we were not as efficient as we are used to. It can happen in the season. It is just of course at a very bad moment for us. I expect us to respond in a strong way because this team is very ambitious and wants to do very well.''

Wenger added: "We have a good opportunity, we play at home against Schalke and since we know that we won in Montpellier, our qualifying will depend on how well we do at home.''

Despite having won both their opening two group games and defending an unbeaten run of 16 home matches in the Champions League, Wenger warned there can be no complacency against a team which beat Borussia Dortmund away on Saturday.

"They are a solid side with good organisation. Up front of course they have [Klaas-Jan] Huntelaar, [Jefferson] Farfan, that we know are well, [Ibrahim] Afellay and [Julian] Draxler. They are dangerous and play a lot on counter-attacks,'' he said.

Winger Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain will miss tomorrow's game because of a hip injury picked up after a brief substitute appearance at Norwich. Forward Theo Walcott is still sidelined by the chest injury suffered while on international duty against San Marino.

Arsenal player to watch: Having scored in both of Arsenal's Champions League games this season, Lukas Podolski will be desperate to make it three from three against Schalke. He scored Cologne's only goal when they were beat 4-1 by Schalke in the Bundesliga last season, and will be keen for revenge, albeit in Arsenal colours.

Schalke player to watch: Arsenal were virtually a one-man team last season as they relied heavily on Robin van Persie for goals. The Dutch striker left for rivals Manchester United in the summer, and his international strike partner could cause further woe for the Gunners with goals at Emirates Stadium.

Betting: Lukas Podolski has scored in both of Arsenal's Champions League wins so far this season. Back him to score the first goal in a 2-1 Arsenal win at 70/1 with bet365.

Prediction: 2-1

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