Arsenal have had a few extra days to prepare for the FA Cup tie at Nottingham Forest, so let’s take a look at the predicted lineup?
After a disappointing defeat to Manchester City, the Gunners would have looked forward to make a menace against Liverpool. But that was not to be, and they have to make the trip up north for the weekend.
Bernd Leno will start in goal as the German comes in for Aaron Ramsdale. The keeper has done well in the Cup games so far and would want to keep that run of form going. As for the full backs, there are going to be changes with Cedric and Nuno Tavares coming in. They will replace Takehiro Tomiyasu and Kieran Tierney respectively.
In the centre of defence, Gabriel is unavailable due to red card. Rob Holding is likely to come in for the Brazilian and the Englishman should be partnered with Ben White. There is a chance that we could see Pablo Mari, but it is possible that Arteta goes for the more established choice.
There are a few choices to be made in the centre of midfield for the manager. Albert Sambi Lokonga and Granit Xhaka are the only senior players available. With the Swiss player still a doubt, it could see youngster Charlie Patino being given a chance along with the Belgian. If the boss opts for more experience, we could get to see Calum Chambers take that spot.
There are likely to be changes made to the midfield as well and that could see Gabriel Martinelli being rested. In place of the Brazilian, Emile Smith Rowe should be the one coming in. Him along with Bukayo Saka and Martin Odegaard form a fearsome trio and would look to cause Forest a lot of problems.
Up front, Arteta is going to go with Eddie Nketiah who has already made his mark in the Carabao Cup. The England forward has a knack of finding the back of the net and his skills will be needed once again. Arsenal would like to get back to winning ways and hope they can put in a good performance.
Arsenal Predicted Lineup Against Nottingham Forest (4-2-3-1):
Bernd Leno, Cedric, Ben White, Rob Holding, Nuno Tavares, Albert Sambi Lokonga, Charlie Patino, Bukayo Saka, Martin Odegaard, Emile Smith Rowe, Eddie Nketiah
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