Per Mertesacker has revealed that he uses a different approach in the dressing room depending on who is speaking with.

The club’s vice-captain, Per is a leader on and off the pitch. He brings a calmness and assuredness to this side that is often overlooked by outsiders who only notice his pace ‘issues’.

His experience is invaluable within the squad, especially with the younger players who know they can turn to a World Cup winner for advice should they need it.

“I try to be at my best, be calm and give our players the best from myself but communicate as well and give good information,” Per told Arsenal Player.

“That is what I need to do, and that is my job. Everyone gives energy, and everyone gives advice and needs to listen, including me.

“You have different characters. You won’t say the same to Laurent or Hector as what you say to Alexis. You have to put your words in a different way sometimes. You know now how people react to certain advice so I always try to adapt on that and give good information for their character.

“I don’t want to upset people and it is really good we have a lot of people who don’t take it personally – but if you put your words in a different way it may happen. I try to always be careful on that front because it is a sensitive topic.”

Mertesacker has been passed fit for this weekend’s game in the FA Cup against Watford.

He was taken off against Hull on Tuesday after slamming his head into the back of Nick Powell, leaving him with a cut eye and some dizziness.

His centre-back partner, Gabriel, has recovered from the hamstring problem that saw him go off against Hull as well, but that will certainly be an injury to keep an eye on.

Grumbling hamstrings are often trouble at a later date.

Laurent Koscielny is ‘close’ but won’t feature on Sunday.