Arsene Wenger’s men travel to the Amex Stadium for their clash against Brighton & Hove Albion amid heavy criticisms following a dismal run of results.
Arsenal are looking for a game to bounce back from recent disappointments, especially after losing their last three games in a row. Up next for the Gunners, are Brighton & Hove Albion at the Amex Stadium, with the Seagulls going through a fine run of recent form.
Arsene Wenger would be looking at the Brighton clash as the right game for his beleaguered Gunners side to bounce back and get some relief. The Arsenal boss is likely to focus all his attention towards securing a Europa League triumph to enter the Champions League next season, considering they have a ten-point gap on the top four.
In accordance with that, there could be minor changes to the squad to play Brighton, although Wenger would be ill advised to make too many shuffles to avoid slipping further. Laurent Koscielny could be given a small rest following his substantial involvement in recent games, with Calum Chambers replacing the skipper.
Petr Cech should definitely start considering David Ospina is the designated goalkeeper in Europa League. Nacho Monreal remains absent due to the back injury sustained against City in the Carabao Cup final, meaning Sead Kolasinac could continue to deputise for the Spaniard at left-back.
Jack Wilshere is again doubtful with a minor ankle complaint, and considering the options available for Wenger at his disposal in central midfield, his usual pairing of Granit Xhaka and Aaron Ramsey could continue in those positions. The Arsenal boss did address Wilshere’s fitness situation though, in his pre-match press conference.
“If he can practice tomorrow, then he will be in contention. He will not practice today, he will have treatment and then a test tomorrow.”
Up ahead in attack, Wenger could keep faith in his attacking midfield line with the likes of Henrikh Mkhitaryan, Mesut Ozil, Danny Welbeck and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyangset to start. Welbeck was a surprise starter against Machester City ahead of Alex Iwobi, but his performance in the last game could prompt Wenger to give him another run.
With Alexandre Lacazette still out injured, Aubameyang is set to be given the responsibility to lead the line for Arsenal, and the Gabonese star will be hoping to finally start showing his ability and silence those who have criticised him after recent games.