Arsenal's Europa League tie to go ahead amid political and weather concerns

UEFA have confirmed that the group stage tie will go ahead, in spite of martial law being declared in Ukraine, after three naval ships were captured by Russian coastguards off the Crimean cost on Sunday. 

Under martial law, the military and civil authorities have increased powers by way of deterring further trouble.The developments have led to increased fear that further conflict could occur between Ukraine and Russia. 

Regardless, UEFA has decided that the match will go ahead. A statement for the governing body confirmed the news, which read: "We confirm that the match will be played as scheduled. As is the case for all UEFA competition matches, all the necessary security measures will be undertaken."

The foreign office has urged any Arsenal supporters travelling to the match to be aware of the current situation in the country, and 'avoid any action or chanting that could provoke a hostile reaction'.

Arsenal face a 14 hour, 3,000 mile round trip to eastern Europe, where they will play in below freezing temperatures on Thursday. 

Yet the recent developments have compounded the disruption that will no doubt occur ahead of one of the most important dates of the club's league season: the North London derby. 

The arduous journey for Unai Emery's side, which will include various plane stops and a coach trip, is set to take place just 3 days before they host arch rivals Tottenham on Sunday.

Emery has opted to field strong lineups in every match of the competition so far, but now, with his side already through to the knockout stages, he could use the game to rest his top stars for the weekend. 

Arsenal are unbeaten in their last 17 matches since they lost to Manchester City on the opening day of the season, and will look to use the whole depth of their squad in the next few weeks.