Arsenal had a rude awakening at the weekend as they crashed out of the FA Cup by loosing to Nottingham Forest and they will now travel to Anfield for the first leg of their Carabao Cup semi-final against Liverpool, so let’s take a look at the predicted lineup?
The manager would have been concerned by the manner in which the Gunners lost to Nottingham Forest. The players looked lethargic and did not seem like they were going to score at any point. They will have to pick things up if they are to stay in the hunt for a trophy.
Given how well Bernd Leno has been playing, he is likely to continue in goal. Cedric was really disappointing on Sunday but with Takehiro Tomiyasu suffering from a tight calf, the Portuguese might continue. Nuno Tavares was substituted before half time at Forest but could be entrusted with a start once again.
As for the centre backs, Calum Chambers and Pablo Mari would be hoping that one of them gets a chance to play. There is a good chance that the Englishman will be chosen to partner Ben White. The two defenders will have a big role to play with their passing to get the better of the Reds.
Central midfield is where Arteta has the biggest problem given the lack of options. Granit Xhaka had tested positive for Covid so its not clear if the Swiss is available. Given the other absentees, Albert Sambi Lokonga would certainly be in the starting XI. And we might get to see Martin Odegaard chosen to partner the Belgian. Though it is not an ideal duo, it may be the only viable option.
As for the attacking trio ahead of them, there will be hope that Emile Smith Rowe can be fit and ready. If the Englishman is passed fit, he will start as the attacking midfielder with Bukayo Saka on the right and Gabriel Martinelli on the left.
Arsenal would want to give Eddie Nketiah another chance to show his goal scoring prowess. The forward was not at his best in the FA Cup and would want to continue his impressive record in the Carabao Cup. The objective for the north Londoners would be to get back to London with a decent score so the second leg can go their way.
Arsenal Predicted Lineup Against Liverpool (4-2-3-1):
Bernd Leno, Cedric, Ben White, Calum Chambers, Nuno Tavares, Albert Sambi Lokonga, Martin Odegaard, Bukayo Saka, Emile Smith Rowe, Gabriel Martinelli, Eddie Nketiah
Read More: Arsenal fans impressed with Bernd Leno display in FA Cup exit
