Arsenal welcome Brentford to the Emirates on Saturday as they look to make up ground in the fight to finish in the top-four, so let’s take a look at the predicted lineup.
With their rivals dropping points, Mikel Arteta has a chance to be on the front foot. The Gunners defended brilliantly to clinch a crucial point at the Molineux. That kind of determination will be required this weekend and the hosts will be wary of the Bees’ quality after facing a defeat at the hands of the visitors earlier this season.
Aaron Ramsdale will be between the sticks and would be keen to add another clean sheet to his collection. As for the full backs, Kieran Tierney will surely start on the left flank. And although Takehiro Tomiyasu has returned to training, the Japanese defender might not start. This would result in Cedric being given a chance to play as the right back.
The north Londoners will be happy with the centre back pairing of Ben White and Gabriel. These two were instrumental in getting the win over Wolves and will have to be ready for the physical challenge that the visitors will bring.
Thomas Partey and Granit Xhaka will be the central midfield duo and will have to bring some control to the proceedings. Their experience will be crucial in helping the Gunners set the tempo of the game.
With Gabriel Martinelli suspended for the match, it gives Emile Smith Rowe a chance to start. The Englishman has been having a stellar season and his runs from midfield would be crucial in breaking through the Brentford defence. The other two attackers are going to be Martin Odegaard and Bukayo Saka.
Alexandre Lacazette should lead the attack and will want to be more clinical in front of goal. If Arsenal can take their chances and defend as well as they have, it gives them a great chance of getting the three points. Arteta will hope that his team can get the win and move towards the Champions League.
Arsenal Predicted Lineup Against Brentford (4-2-3-1):
Aaron Ramsdale, Cedric, Ben White, Gabriel, Kieran Tierney, Thomas Partey, Granit Xhaka, Bukayo Saka, Martin Odegaard, Emile Smith Rowe, Alexandre Lacazette
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