Arsenal suffered a crushing blow on Monday and will now face the task of getting past Brighton and Hove Albion this weekend, so let’s take a look at the predicted lineup.
The Gunners looked to be in the driver’s seat heading into the final stretch of games but they suffered a demoralising defeat against Crystal Palace. As a result, they lie in fifth place level on points with Spurs having played a game less.
It was good to see Aaron Ramsdale back in goal and he will continue to be in between the sticks. Due to the full-back situation, Arteta has no choice but to select Cedric and Nuno Tavares. The latter had a poor game at Selhurst Park and will be keen to make up for it.
The centre-back pairing of Ben White and Gabriel had a rare off-day against Palace as they let in three goals. But they should be back to their best against the Seagulls and their ability to pass from the back is going to be crucial.
There are doubts over the availability of Thomas Partey which is a huge blow for the Gunners. The Ghanaian has become the team’s best midfielder and not having him could see the manager turn to Albert Sambi Lokonga. Along with the Belgian, it is going to be the dependable presence of Granit Xhaka.
After starting on the bench for the last game, Gabriel Martinelli is likely to be preferred over Emile Smith Rowe from the start. The Brazilian will line up alongside Bukayo Saka and Martin Odegaard. These three have to do the bulk of the attacking and look to get beyond the Brighton defence.
Leading the attack is senior striker Alexandre Lacazette who needs to start scoring soon. Arsenal and Arteta will hope and pray that the Frenchman is able to find his shooting boots. This is a big test for the north Londoners as they come up against a talented team led by Graham Potter. A win on Saturday will prove to be a big boost as the fight for the Champions League spots gets tighter.
Arsenal Predicted Lineup Against Brighton And Hove Albion (4-2-3-1):
Aaron Ramsdale, Cedric, Ben White, Gabriel, Nuno Tavares, Albert Sambi Lokonga, Granit Xhaka, Bukayo Saka, Martin Odegaard, Gabriel Martinelli, Alexandre Lacazette
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