Defiant Emery insists he still has player's backing
Unai Emery is adamant the Arsenal players still have belief in him and suggested Granit Xhaka will return to the team on Friday (AEDT) for the first time since clashing with supporters.
The Gunners are without a win in six games in all competitions, with fan frustration hitting new heights in recent weeks.
Emery is reportedly close to being dismissed, with Wolves' Nuno Espirito Santo said to be among those in the running to replace him, though the former Paris Saint-Germain and Sevilla boss insists he is only thinking about Thursday's visit of Frankfurt.
Arsenal head into the match top of Europa League Group F with 10 points and Emery is calling on supporters to back the Gunners and specifically Xhaka, who has not played since a confrontation with fans in the clash with Crystal Palace on October 27.
"They are angry and disappointed, as well we are. We have a very good opportunity to [correct] do that," he told reporters.
"Each match here at the Emirates is very important for that... The players need to feel [fans] backing them.
"Xhaka is in the group and he has the possibility to play. I hope every supporter supports him. Xhaka's comeback is going to be important for us."
It has been reported that Emery's relationship with some of his players has fallen apart, with the Basque coach said to have had a row with Alexandre Lacazette, though he has no doubt the squad is behind him.
When asked if the players still believe in him, Emery said: "Yes, of course, they show that.
"As a coach each moment in my career is difficult. This is a very good, but very hard job. When you are winning you feel the support for everybody.
"I believe in us, I believe in the players. I know I am going to work very hard to come back to the performance.
"I am looking forward to playing. In the good moments, the bad moments, the most important thing for me is to show my work.
"Our confidence depends a lot on how we can feel in our stadium with our supporters. Teams are coming here playing fearless. We need to be strong and together. We need to show our supporters our capacity and skills."
