Arsenal’s predicted XI for the crunch clash with Manchester United at the Emirates Stadium.
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Wojciech Szczesny
The five goals he conceded at Liverpool on Saturday has ruined Szczesny’s previously impressive goals against record but the Polish keeper will start again, barring a late injury.
Bacary Sagna
The French full-back has reportedly rejected a new deal, and Gunners boss Arsene Wenger may have to find a replacement in the summer. Until then, he’ll be the Gunners’ first choice right-back.
Per Mertesacker
Mertesacker was humiliated by Luis Suarez at the weekend, and could have an equally difficult task tonight against Wayne Rooney and Robin van Persie. The United pair have struggled in recent weeks though, and Arsenal’s defensive home record is formidable.
Laurent Koscielny
Like his defensive partner, Koscielny struggled badly against Liverpool, and lost Martin Skrtel twice for the Slovakian to score the game’s first two goals. As a result, Arsene Wenger will surely have had him working on defensive set-pieces this week.
Kieran Gibbs
Nacho Monreal was hauled off after an hour against Liverpool after a weak performance, and we think Wenger will select Gibbs to play from the beginning against United instead.
Mikel Arteta
With Mathieu Flamini still suspended, Mikel Arteta will play the anchorman role once more for the Gunners. He scored a penalty last time out against Liverpool, but played especially badly. He’ll need to up his level massively.
Jack Wilshere
The English talent was totally outshone by Coutinho at the weekend, and will be looking forward to facing the much less dynamic and creative pairing of Darren Fletcher and Michael Carrick in the middle of the park.
Mesut Ozil
Ozil has been criticised recently for some below par performances, and he will be desperate to prove his doubters wrong this evening. In the Premier League so far, he’s assisted eight goals this term.
Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain
The flying winger was one of the few Arsenal to players to emerge with any credit from the mauling at Liverpool. The Ox kept on running and should retain his place against United.
Santi Cazorla
Cazorla should start from the left, but will be given the licence to drift infield and link up with Arsenal’s other attacking midfielders. He’s brilliantly two footed, although may have to help out defensively with Juan Mata likely to start on United’s right flank.
Olivier Giroud
Giroud had a shocker against the Reds, but with only Nicklas Bendtner as a viable replacement option, Wenger has little choice but to choose him up top once more.