Having collected maximum points from their last two fixtures, Arsenal will be looking to finally break into the top four, when they take on Southampton on New Year’s Day.
The two sides are tied on points, with the Saints occupying fourth spot on goal difference, but Arsene Wenger will demand nothing short of three points from his charges.
Arsenal were perhaps fortunate to overcome Southampton when the two met at the Emirates earlier this season, and while Saints have slipped somewhat since then, their draw against Chelsea last time out proves that they are still a tough nut to crack.
Wenger has alluded to the fact that he will not rotate his side for the sake of it, but conceded there could be some small personnel changes.
Below is how Arsenal could line-up:
Defence
Defensively, it’s very much as you were for the Gunners, with the only change coming at full back, with Kieran Gibbs expected to replace Nacho Monreal, who picked up a knock in the win over West Ham.
Midfield
Wenger set his side up for a very physical encounter last time out – opting for a defensive midfield duo of Mathieu Flamini and Francis Coquelin – but this time around, it is likely that he will go for a more attacking approach. This means Coquelin will drop to the bench in favour of Tomas Rosicky, who should partner Santi Cazorla in the middle, with Flamini behind them.
Attack
Oliver Giroud’s suspension and Yaya Sanogo’s injury absence means that Alexis Sanchez will most likely play in a central role. Despite his own fitness struggles, Danny Welbeck looks to be able to retain his position in the starting XI, while Wenger dropped a strong hint that Theo Walcott could return to the first team, if he is able to shake off his own strain.
Arsenal fans, how do you think you’ll line-up against Southampton? Comment below…
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