Arsenal's board have handed caretaker manager Freddie Ljungberg to pitch for the fulltime job.

The London Evening Standard says the Gunners consider Ljungberg as a genuine contender to be their next permanent manager and will offer him the job if he instigates a sufficient turnaround in fortunes.

The 42-year-old's first game as interim boss ended on Sunday in a 2-2 draw at Norwich after he was put in temporary charge on Friday following the sacking of Unai Emery.

The club have no plans to make a quick appointment, having decided to remove Emery based on poor performances and divisions within the camp rather than agreeing terms with a replacement.

They have sounded out several ­candidates over their potential ­interest and while they continue that process, Ljungberg will be given time to prove himself.