Arsenal welcome their crosstown rivals Crystal Palace on Wednesday as they look to book a place in the semi-finals of the EFL Cup. What kind of team will Mikel Arteta select for this game?
The Gunners could not get the better of Everton at the weekend and that saw them fail to grain ground on Liverpool. But not all hope is lost as they do have a chance of getting silverware in this competition.
Neto who was signed in the summer, is cup-tied for the EFL Cup and in all likelihood, it will be David Raya playing. We are likely to see the same two full backs take to the field in Jurrien Timber and Myles Lewis-Skelly.
As for the centre backs, the north Londoners would prefer to give Gabriel a rest and that should see Jakub Kiwior get another start. The Polish international will be partnered with William Saliba and these two have shown signs of being a good partnership in the past.
Thomas Partey is another player who is likely to be rested, giving Jorginho a chance to start. The Italian will be able to set the tempo and help the hosts get control of the game. There are likely to be other changes in the team as well.
Both Martin Odegaard and Declan Rice should be on the bench, giving Mikel Merino and Ethan Nwaneri the opportunity to showcase their skills from the beginning. Having a strong bench will also mean that Arteta can change things around should the situation demand it.
Bukayo Saka should start given the importance of the game and on the other side of the pitch, it should be Raheem Sterling. The experience of the English international will prove to be crucial in getting the better of the Palace defence.
Gabriel Jesus will get another start as he looks to get over his dry spell in front of goal. If the Brazilian can put away the chances that come his way, the Gunners should go home with a slot in the semi-finals booked.
Arsenal know what is at stake and Arteta would be keen to add another trophy to his resume. Beating the visitors is not going to be easy but the home team has the talent and ability to put on a good showing and secure the win.
Arsenal Predicted Lineup Against Crystal Palace (4-3-3):
David Raya, Jurrien Timber, William Saliba, Jakub Kiwior, Myles Lewis-Skelly, Jorginho, Mikel Merino, Ethan Nwaneri, Bukayo Saka, Raheem Sterling, Gabriel Jesus
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