Will Jack Wilshere be given game time? (Picture: Getty Images)
Will Jack Wilshere be given game time? (Picture: Getty Images)

Arsenal will compete for first time in the Europa League since the UEFA Cup final back in 2000 – when they lost on penalties to Galatasaray.

Arsene Wenger finished outside of the top four and Champions League places for the first time during his managerial tenure at the club.

Despite Arsenal going into unfamiliar surroundings, the competition presents the Gunners a great chance of winning silverware and Champions League qualification next summer.

Arsenal face ex-striker, Lukas Podolski’s hometown club, FC Koln.

When is Arsenal vs Koln?

Arsenal face Koln on Thursday, September 14th at the Emirates Stadium, with kick-off at 8:05pm BST.

Alexis Sanchez will be hoping to boost his match sharpness ahead of the Chelsea game (Getty Images)

What TV Channel is showing Arsenal vs Koln?

The game will be shown live on BT Sport 2 and and is also available to live stream on the BT Sport app and on BTSport.com.

What is the team news for Arsenal vs Koln?

Arsenal will have a similar squad to choose from after their 3-0 victory over Bournemouth on Saturday.

Midfielder, Francis Coquelin, is almost certain to be unavailable for the game after picking up a hamstring injury.

Arsene Wenger could give Alexis Sanchez more playing time –  as he still building up his match fitness – following his summer excursions at the FIFA Confederations Cup.

What are the odds for Arsenal v Koln? (Courtesy of Betfair)

Arsenal – 3/10

Draw – 9/2

Koln – 9/1

Prematch stats

  • Arsenal have lost five of their last seven home games against German clubs.
  • Köln yet to win in five games in England: D2 L3.
  • Gunners’ last match in this competition was 2000 UEFA Cup final.

MORE : Diego Costa leaves Brazil for Madrid in effort to finally force through Atletico transfer

MORE : Atalanta v Everton TV channel, kick-off time, date, odds and team news