Arsene Wenger today warned Arsenal face a huge test of character against Borussia Dortmund tomorrow night and urged his team to seal qualification with victory at Emirates Stadium.
The German champions are second in the Bundesliga after winning five of their last six matches in an impressive run that was extended with a 1-0 success at leaders Bayern Munich last weekend.
The Gunners can book their place in the last 16 with a win tomorrow night and Wenger said: "Every player and every member of staff is conscious that it is a big night for us. It's a very important one.
"It's another big test for our solidity and we will go into the game with that attitude, concentration and desire to win the game. We think we can do it."
Wenger revealed Tomas Rosicky will be unavailable after suffering a slight thigh problem in training but midfielder Abou Diaby returns to the squad after recovering from a hamstring injury.
Diaby has not featured for Arsenal since the final day of last season before playing for France against Belarus at the beginning of June. And Wenger added: "It's been a little bit quicker than expected because he looked good in training, so it's really good to have him back.
"He has not played one minute since the start of the season and had his surgery in June, so it's great for him to return."
Wenger also confirmed Robin van Persie will start, having been rested for Arsenal's last Champions League match which ended in a goalless draw against Marseille.
"Robin started on the substitutes' bench last time because we had some medical concerns," said Wenger.
"Tomorrow we have no medical concerns at all and that means he will start the match."
