Match Preview – Match Facts – Predicted Lineup
The Gunners travel to Aston Villa on Monday night and will be looking for revenge after their disastrous loss to the Villains on the opening weekend of the Premiership.
Wenger has plenty of options in midfield after revealing the latest team news, with suggestions that Aaron Ramsey could be back in contention, while Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain’s run-out for the U21 side in midweek will help him make a step towards first team action. Lukas Podolski is also an option on the left, while Mesut Ozil and Tomas Rosicky provide depth in the number 10 position.
Arsenal lost Theo Walcott to injury for the season after the weekends FA Cup win over the Spuds, but luckily have a myriad of options to fill in for the England international, however he will be sorely missed.
Starting at the back, Kieran Gibbs could be restored to the lineup after his recent injury troubles, but will face a late fitness test. If all goes pear shaped for the Englishman Nacho Monreal will be eager for another outing after display some solid form of late. Rest of the backline will be as usual.
In midfield Mikel Arteta should get the nod with Jack Wilshere alongside. There is no need to rush Aaron Ramsey back, but if he is indeed fit then he could make an appearance from the bench. Likewise for Oxlade-Chamberlain.
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Serge Gnabry’s performance against Spurs earned plenty of plaudits likewise for Tomas Rosicky. However it’s out of those two for the right wing slot, and it appears that Wenger will probably go for experience over pace, but Gnabry offers an exciting alternative from the bench.
Mesut Ozil is fit and will return to his preferred No 10 role, with Santi Cazorla operating on the left. The little Spaniard produced a promising outing against the Spuds and will want to build upon that performance.
The fit again Olivier Giroud will occupy the centre forward role and hopefully we never lose to the Frenchman to injury again this campaign. Which leaves Podolski on the bench, alongside Ramsey, The Ox and potentially Gnabry. All exciting options to have among the substitutes.
Here is our predicted lineup.
Predicted Lineup
Szczesny
Sagna Merts Kosc Monreal
Arteta (c) Wilshere
Ozil
Rosicky Cazorla
Giroud
What are your thoughts and ideas? Comment below..
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