The Togo striker, who infamously celebrated in front of Gunners fans after scoring against them last season, hit a Europa League hat-trick in midweek but Carlos Tevez returned to lead the line.

Dedryck Boyata started in defence at Eastlands with Joleon Lescott among the substitutes alongside fit-again £23million signing Mario Balotelli.

Arsenal were without Abou Diaby but Bacary Sagna returned from injury and Andrey Arshavin was chosen ahead of Tomas Rosicky.

The match was preceded by a memorial service outside the stadium for former City manager Malcolm Allison, who died last week, and a minute’s applause immediately prior to kick-off.