Arsenal men wrap up against brutal elements for final training session

Arsenal battled through lashings of rain and wind on Saturday afternoon, as they put in their final training session ahead of a trip to Southampton.

Unai Emery, clad in waterproofs, watched on and barked instructions as his team went about their work - knowing victory on Sunday would increase their claim for a top four position.

Some of the players appeared barely unrecognisable, with playmaker Mesut Ozil wrapped up in a large snood and head-wear.

The World Cup winner has been out of the squad in recent weeks, after struggling with back problems, but could be set to make his Gunners return at St Mary's.

Arsenal currently remain on a hot run of form, undefeated in their last 22 games in all competitions.

Their run of form is due in part to star striker Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, who leads the way in the Premier League scoring stakes with Mohamed Salah on 10 goals.

Already Arsenal are making plans for the long term under Emery and, as revealed recently by Sportsmail, are in talks over a potentially lucrative pre-season tour of the United States next summer.

It is understood the Gunners are exploring a trip across the Atlantic ahead of next season as they looked to make a firmer imprint on the American market.

Arsenal are looking at potential five-game stay; with stops on the west and east coast. Games in Chicago and New York are among the options Arsenal chiefs are looking into.