Arsenal potentially have a full-fit squad ahead of hosting Chelsea at the Emirates as Mikel Arteta ponders minor tweaks to his lineup.
There is enormous pressure on Arsenal and Mikel Arteta heading into the final five games of the Premier League season. The Gunners face the first of their two remaining London derbies as they take on Chelsea at the Emirates on Tuesday and travel to Tottenham at the weekend.
During his pre-match press conference, Arteta was asked about many things, including the test his team faced at Molineux and Jurrien Timber’s status. Arsenal came through as 2-0 winners away at Wolves, but Gary O’Neil’s side put them to a battle.
On the Wolves game, Arteta said, “It was a good test to see how we reacted to certain obstacles and how much we want it basically and what we are capable of doing when the task raises the level of demands and some people are questioning. It’s the moment that you have to step up and certainly the team did that.”
Meanwhile, Jurrien Timber featured for the Under-21s on Monday and even got on the scoresheet, as he looked sharp and probably ready. Arteta has confirmed his readiness in his presser, although the defender might be a bit short of actual match fitness for the Premier League. The Spaniard was asked if Timer could be involved in the game against Spurs.
Arteta said, “That’s a quick step. Let’s see how he feels today. He’s been training really well. He looks ready. He needs that exposure and after that, we’ll assess whether that game comes at the right time or too fast. We’ll try to get him with us for the final games.”
As for selection decisions, Arteta might tweak his setup from the win over Wolves while retaining most of the personnel who started at Molineux. A fundamental change would be the introduction of Jorginho in the midfield, which could see Kai Havertz move back to leading the line for the Gunners.
Jakub Kiwior could retain his place at left-back, meaning Arteta will start with the same back-five as he did against Wolves. Jorginho’s inclusion would allow Declan Rice to play the left-eight role, with Martin Odegaard taking up a similar position on the right side.
Bukayo Saka needs to step up his game after a few recent dismal ones, as he will start from the right wing, with Gabriel Martinelli occupying the opposite flank. Havertz will lead the line for the Gunners, while Arteta may have to rely upon the prowess of Gabriel Jesus and Leandro Trossard as an option off the bench.
Predicted Arsenal XI: Raya; Ben White, Saliba, Gabriel, Kiwior; Odegaard, Jorginho, Rice; Saka, Havertz, Martinelli
