Arsenal v Manchester City: Samir Nasri predicts hostile reception, but insists 'I don't focus on the opposition fans'

The Frenchman left the Emirates in the summer of 2011

Samir Nasri has called for the Manchester City squad to make their win over Arsenal count by improving their form away from the Etihad Stadium (GETTY IMAGES)

Manchester City midfielder Samir Nasri is anticipating another less-than-warm reception from Arsenal fans when he returns to the Emirates Stadium this weekend but insists it will not affect his focus.

Nasri was with the Gunners for three seasons before switching to City in the summer of 2011.

The France international has received abuse from Arsenal supporters on previous occasions when he has gone back to face the club.

And ahead of City making the trip to London on Saturday, Nasri, quoted on mcfc.co.uk, said: "I don't expect to be welcomed with open arms by the crowd but hopefully that's because they were disappointed to see me leave and perhaps at some point they loved me.

"But when I am on the pitch I don't focus on the opposition fans, I am focused on doing my best for the team."

City are currently third in the Barclays Premier League, two points behind second-placed Liverpool and three behind leaders Chelsea but with two games in hand over both of those clubs.

They have nine matches left to play and if they can win at fourth-placed Arsenal, it would appear to be a major step forward for their title challenge.

But Nasri is keen not to place too much emphasis on any one remaining fixture.

"There are plenty of games left between now and the end of the season," the 26-year-old said.

"I think it is too easy to say that one game will be crucial for the title.

"We know that if we win every game we will be champions, so every game is crucial for us."

PA