Arsenal have had a bad couple of games and they will look to bounce back against Southampton this weekend, so let’s take a look at the predicted lineup.
Though Everton were able to score the winner only during injury time on Monday, the performance would have worried the manager. For long periods, the Gunners looked lethargic and were not willing to take any initiative and that let the Toffees dominate the game.
Things have to be different if the result is to change tomorrow and how will Mikel Arteta react with his team selection?
Aaron Ramsdale will keep his place in goal on the back of winning a second player of the month award. Kieran Tierney made his return at Goodison Park and the Scot’s crosses were one of the main attacking outlets. He should keep his place along with Takehiro Tomiyasu on the opposite flank.
Ben White looked a bit troubled against the physicality of Richarlison and would be keen to make up for that over the weekend. Along with him will be the other permanent fixture in the centre of defence, Gabriel.
The return of Granit Xhaka is a huge boost for the north Londoners as the Swiss midfielder offers the team more structure in attack and defence. There is a good chance that Thomas Partey will be dropped given how bad his form has been. That could give Albert Sambi Lokonga a chance.
Last Monday, the Gunners did feel the absence of Emile Smith Rowe and that could continue as the Englishman gets assessed ahead of the match. Gabriel Martinelli should keep his place on the left wing. And rounding up the attack is the presence of Martin Odegaard and Bukayo Saka.
The striking department is one area that would have frustrated Arteta a lot in the last month or so. Neither Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang or Alexandre Lacazette have shown the necessary cutting edge. The captain is likely to be favoured as Arsenal will benefit from his pace. It is going to be a tough game against an intense team such as Southampton, but the hosts should collect the three points.
Arsenal Predicted Lineup Against Southampton (4-2-3-1):
Aaron Ramsdale, Takehiro Tomiyasu, Ben White, Gabriel, Kieran Tierney, Albert Sambi Lokonga, Granit Xhaka, Bukayo Saka, Martin Odegaard, Gabriel Martinelli, Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang
Read More: Arsenal fans applaud Takehiro Tomiyasu’s performance at Old Trafford
