The Swiss international won a players’ vote for their preferred skipper.

Xhaka replaces frenchman Laurent Koscielny after leading the team in six of their eight games this season.

Emery consulted with his players before informing the squad this morning ahead of Monday’s game at Manchester United, live on Sky Sports.

«Xhaka is mature, he has experience,» the Gunners boss said. «We are living under pressure and criticism; as a coach, as a player, as a club. The most important thing is to stand up in each moment.