Arsenal FC take on bitter rivals Tottenham Hotspur in the third round of the Capital One Cup at the White Hart Lane and manager Arsene Wenger has revealed the team news ahead of the clash.
Francis Coquelin, who was withdrawn at half-time, in the clash against Chelsea FC will be unavailable for the clash against Spurs, while Per Mertesacker and Alex Iwobi could feature for the Gunners.
The Emirates outfit have lost their last two fixtures against Chelsea FC and Dinamo Zagreb, and would be looking to bring their season back on track against arch-rivals Tottenham.
The Gunners have been boosted by the availability of Gabriel, who had received a straight red card in the clash against Chelsea FC for an alleged altercation with Diego Costa. However, the Brazilian’s red card was rescinded by the FA and is eligible for selection against Spurs.
It will be quite an experienced squad with one or two younger players – Arsene Wenger
Speaking ahead of the crunch clash, as quoted by the club’s official website, Wenger said:
“Francis Coquelin will be out and we have no major problems for anybody else. It should be a similar squad.
“His knee is swollen and he is being assessed but we hope it is just a short-term problem.”
The Frenchman also provided updates on the fitness of defender Per Mertesacker, who has not featured since the clash against Crystal Palace. The German is available for selection and could start his first game in over a month.
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“He is available for selection, yes.”
Wenger also insisted that 19-year-old youngster Alex Iwobi could also play a bit part role in the clash, but did not outline the exact no. of youngsters that could feature in the tie.
“Alex Iwobi. I want to keep the squad together. We go game by game so I will make changes, for sure. How many? Ia ve not decided yet. It will be quite an experienced squad with one or two younger players.
“He is in and out a little bit because we travel a lot. He is doing well.”
