Arsene Wenger pleased with Arsenal's options in central defence

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has hailed his defensive options after being forced to make a late change to his backline against Manchester City.

Thomas Vermaelen missed the trip to Eastlands, with his replacement Laurent Kosicelny stepping in and scoring a late equaliser in the 1-1 draw.

Wenger admitted that he may find it difficult to keep his defenders happy and rotation will be commonplace this season.

He told the club's official website: "Vermaelen had flu yesterday, and we left him at home. But Laurent Koscielny had a great game and stepped in very well.

"We have three classy centre-backs, and it is a very difficult choice. Koscielny, Per Mertesacker and Vermaelen, no matter who is left out can feel it is not right. But I will rotate them and take into consideration the strikers we will face."

Arsenal maintained their unbeaten record by gaining a point against City and sit in 5th place in the table after five matches.