Tomas Rosicky
Providing he passes a late fitness test, Tomas Rosicky should supply industry and creativity to the Arsenal attacking midfield line.
The Czech Republic international ought to be one of the fresher options for the Gunners, having not played a role in the penalty shoot-out victory over Wigan Athletic, but might not be ready to play all 90 minutes.
Lukas Podolski
Having been hauled off against Wigan Athletic with around 20 minutes to go, Lukas Podolski should be fit to feature in Arsenal’s starting XI – and ought to have a point to prove, having expressed his disappointment at his substitution publicly.
With doubts over Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain’s fitness after the Englishman played all 120 minutes against the Latics, Podolski will be the most direct player in the Gunners’ attacking midfield three, and provide both pace and a goal threat.
Santi Cazorla
Santi Cazorla is another player who Arsene Wenger was forced to leave on for all 120 minutes against Wigan Athletic, but the Spaniard is one of only a few options from attacking midfield.
Cazorla has good memories from playing West Ham United, having scored in both Premier League fixtures against the Hammers last season.
Olivier Giroud
With Yaya Sanogo having started for Arsenal against Wigan Athletic, Olivier Giroud should be relatively rested.
The Frenchman came on with 20 minutes of normal time remaining, meaning he only took part in around 50 minutes of play.
Giroud ought to be confident after scoring a penalty in the shootout, and needs one goal to reach 20 goals in all competitions for the Gunners this season.
COMMENTS