Arsenal are rapidly slipping in the race for the top four and now face a trip to Southampton on Saturday, so let’s take a look at the predicted lineup.
It was another disappointing result for the Gunners as they shot themselves in the foot by losing to Brighton and Hove Albion. This coupled with Tottenham’s win over Aston Villa has put them in peril of not qualifying for the Champions League. Nothing less than a win at St. Mary’s stadium will do for the visitors.
Aaron Ramsdale will continue in goal and look to keep the talented Saints attackers at bay. As for the full-backs, there is a good chance that Arteta brings Nuno Tavares back into the starting XI given how imbalanced the team looked last weekend. On the right flank, it is going to be Cedric covering for Takehiro Tomiyasu.
The centre-backs for this game will be the usual duo of Ben White and Gabriel, both of whom will have to be on their toes this weekend. The hosts have the propensity to move the ball quickly and if these two are not careful, it could end up costing the north Londoners precious points.
After playing him at left-back in the last game, it would make a lot of sense for the manager to bring Granit Xhaka back into central midfield. Having the Swiss international along with youngster Albert Sambi Lokonga would make the Belgian play with a lot more confidence.
As for the attackers, it is likely that Arteta would want to continue with the trio of Bukayo Saka, Martin Odegaard and Gabriel Martinelli. These three did cause some problems against Brighton and will be needed to get the three points. If they can combine on a regular basis, it gives the Gunners a great chance of winning.
It is time for Arsenal to try someone else at the top of their attack given how poorly Alexandre Lacazette is playing. The visitors would benefit a lot more from the presence of Eddie Nketiah as the team needs goals more than anything else at the moment. It will be a tough match, but a win would mean so much for Arteta and co.
Arsenal Predicted Lineup Against Southampton (4-2-3-1):
Aaron Ramsdale, Cedric, Ben White, Gabriel, Nuno Tavares, Albert Sambi Lokonga, Granit Xhaka, Bukayo Saka, Martin Odegaard, Gabriel Martinelli, Eddie Nketiah
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