Arsene Wenger was dealt a huge blow in pursuit of silverware this season as Southampton managed to knock them out on their own turf off the League Cup quarter final earlier this week. This loss makes their league campaign all the more important but they face a tricky trip to the Olympic Stadium this weekend in what will be the 3rd local derby in three weeks for the Hammers. Slaven Bilic’s side were also knocked out of the League Cup and picked up just a point at the weekend all against United and are in desperate need of some points. But Wenger is expected to play a strong side and go for the kill this weekend. Here is the predicted lineup that Arsenal might field for this game:
Team News:
The manager recently revealed that midfielder Santi Cazorla requires surgery to his ankle which keep him out of action for 3 months at the least. Per Mertesacker and Danny Welbeck remain long term injuries while Mathieu Debuchy is a new name to the list giving Wenger more problems on the wing with Bellerin already out. Mohamed Elneny and Olivier Giroud will have late tests before they can be deemed fit for this tie.
Petr Cech:
The first choice shot stopper for the Gunners, Cech, has had a tremendous season so far and should start this game in between the sticks for the Gunners.
Carl Jenkinson:
Injuries to Hector Bellerin and Mathieu Debuchy will play Arsenal’s hand into giving Jenkinson a start in this game against the Hammers.
Laurent Koscielny:
The French defender has been extra-ordinary this season and is one of the best in the league. He should start this game at the back for Arsenal.
Shkodran Mustafi:
The summer buy for Arsene Wenger, Mustafi, has also been solid at the back, stitching an incredible partnership with the Frenchman. He should start this game at the weekend.
Nacho Monreal:
The experienced right-back was rested for the League Cup tie against Southampton but should be back in action against West Ham.
Francis Coquelin:
Arguably the most consistent player for Arsenal in this position, Coquelin, is first choice for Arsene Wenger this season and should keep his place in the side for this game.
Granit Xhaka:
After being dropped for the last few games, Xhaka, could be back in action this week as he tries to make a better impression on the manager this time around.
Theo Walcott:
The English winger has been superb this season and was on target in the previous round against Bournemouth. He should start on the right wing for this game against West Ham.
Mesut Ozil:
The German has been ineffective in the last few games for the Gunners but this trip to the Olumpic stadium might be a good opportunity for him to make a comeback.
Alex Iwobi:
The youngster has done a decent job on the other wing for the Gunners with Sanchez pushed into the false-9 and he should keep his place in the side in this position this weekend.
Alexis Sanchez:
The Chilean has arguably been the best player this season for Arsenal and he should lead the line ahead for this game against the Hammers.
