Arsenal knows they can’t afford to let things slip against Chelsea after getting back on track with a victory against Wolves. Before Manchester City’s match against Brighton on Thursday, the Gunners have the opportunity to extend their lead at the top of the Premier League to four points.
Arsenal will undoubtedly be the heavy favorite to succeed in that. This season, Chelsea has had difficulty establishing a regular routine. Basically, up until now. Although the Blues were unbeaten in eight games before losing to City in the FA Cup semi-final on Saturday, Mikel Arteta will know that he cannot afford to allow his team to get ahead of themselves.
It is imperative that the Spaniard makes the perfect team selection because of this. This is the lineup that football.london predicts the Spaniard will use.
Goalkeeper – David Raya
The Spaniard was man of the match as Arsenal beat Wolves. He’ll want to put things right after a tricky display in the reverse fixture at Stamford Bridge.
Right back – Ben White
Ben White was impressive against Wolves was again. Arsenal’s Mr. Consistent will be needed once again to keep Chelsea quiet.
Centre back – William Saliba
There were a few sloppy moments against Wolves but for the most part Saliba was back to his composed best. The Frenchman could be key for a strong end to the season.
Centre back – Gabriel
Gabriel was looking composed once again after a difficult few games against Bayern and Villa. The clean sheet will have done him the world of good.
Left back – Oleksandr Zinchenko
Zinchenko has been left out of the starting line up for two games in a row since his mixed display against Aston Villa. This could be the perfect game to bring him back into the fold.
Defensive midfield – Jorginho
The Italian is one of many who have made the journey from west to north London. It’s hard to think of one of these moves that has gone better than Jorginho’s though.
Central midfield – Martin Odegaard
Martin Odegaard’s goal against Wolves felt like a total release of nervous energy for Arsenal. He’ll be hoping to repeat the feat under calmer circumstances on Tuesday night.
Central midfield – Declan Rice
Rice looked knackered from about the hour mark at Molineux. He was still impressive though. He was man of the match in the reverse fixture and will want to replicate that here.
Right wing – Bukayo Saka
Bukayo Saka looked dead on his feet towards the end at Wolves. Still though his performance was at a decent level. Expect him to find those extra reserves against Chelsea.
Centre forward – Kai Havertz
The German was moved back into midfield against Wolves. Gabriel Jesus is unlikely to start twice in such quick succession though, so expect Havertz back up top against his old club.
Left wing – Gabriel Martinelli
The Brazilian should have scored to make it 3-0 at Wolves. It’s the latest disappointment in a poor season for him. He has a great record against Chelsea though, so maybe this is the time for him to begin a strong finish.
