Arsene Wenger will attempt to get Arsenal back on track against Aston Villa on Saturday after a frustrating week that raised questions about their chances of winning major silverware this season.
Wenger's side travel to Villa Park to face a Villa side who lie second in the Premier League with three wins from four matches following last weekend's surprise victory at Liverpool.
If they are to leave with three points, Arsenal will have to quickly shake off the disappointment of the 2-0 Champions League defeat at Borussia Dortmund that came three days after the Gunners had squandered a winning position in a 2-2 draw against Manchester City in the Premier League.
Arsenal's defensive weaknesses were exposed on both occasions, once again throwing focus on Wenger's failure to bring in a centre-back and defensive midfielder during the most recent transfer window.
The Dortmund defeat was the Gunners' first of the campaign - although they have won just two of their seven competitive matches - and the manner of the loss gave cause for concern.
Jack Wilshere conceded that the last two games had once again highlighted Arsenal's failure to succeed at the highest level and questioned whether they had adopted the right approach against the German side.
Wilshere picked up an ankle injury during the game to add to Wenger's worries although the manager has not given up hope of the England midfielder recovering in time to face Villa.
"It's difficult to say how bad it is. Normally it would be not too bad but I am a bit cautious because of his history (of ankle problems)," Wenger said.
The arrival of Danny Welbeck from Manchester United last week has failed to provide an immediate lift with the England forward guilty of missing good chances in both his appearances.
And the performance of Mesut Ozil was again placed under scrutiny after a largely ineffectual display by the Germany midfielder.
But the continuing good form of Aaron Ramsey has provided a bright spot and the midfielder, 23, claims his displays reflect his growing maturity.
"Now I feel like I am as mature as I can be," Ramsey said.
"I've got a lot more responsibility and I've become used to that and it feels good.
"I just want to improve on last season and try to become the best player I can possibly be.
"I'm confident I can improve and have many more of those wonderful moments.
"I'm really excited with the way things are developing and about what the future holds."
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