In wake of Arsenal’s Champions League defeat in Dortmund, the Gunners have an opportunity for redemption in Saturday’s game at Villa Park.
Out for revenge
While opponents Aston Villa have gained an impressive 10 points in four games, Arsenal’s three draws and one win have contributed to an underwhelming start to the season.
The North London side will be out for revenge, after their next opponents shocked them with a 3-1 win at the Emirates on the first day of the 2013/2014 Premier League campaign.
Team News
Manager Arsène Wenger confirmed on Friday that the majority of his team came out of the match unscathed, brushing over any concerns over midfielder Jack Wilshere’s ankle.
Regardless of any long-term injuries, the Gunners will be encouraged with the return of Calum Chambers at right back, after the Englishman missed out this week with suspected tonsillitis.
Mathieu Flamini will also be returning to the fold and is expected to play in the holding midfield role alongside captain Mikel Arteta.
In terms of absentees, Nacho Monreal is still out with a recurring back injury, while Yaya Sanogo’s hamstring problem keeps him out of the running for now.
Expected Line-Up
While many fans will call Wenger to change the team dramatically, it is unlikely he will want to disturb the team balance in such a crucial Premier League fixture.
However, after the abysmal performances of Mesut Özil in recent weeks, there are calls to replace the flailing German.
The Frenchman’s response to criticism was that the fans, “should not be concerned and just support him.”
With the press conference in mind, the line-up for the game is expected to be:
Szczesny – Chambers – Koscielny – Mertesacker – Gibbs – Flamini – Arteta – Ramsey – Özil– Sanchez – Welbeck
Words for Wenger
The manager has had great scrutiny over his tactical awareness in recent weeks and has admitted today that he has toyed with the idea of switching things up for the sake of the team.
“We have to find a balance. Look, I added a striker with Sanchez. We have another striker (in) Welbeck.”
“To find the balance we have as well to defend and I think we have to find a balance between attacking and defending.”
A new battle for the Gunners
With a defeat fresh in the players memories, a cagey start would be expected in the Villa clash.
However, with plenty of attacking options at Arsenal’s disposal, the players should be motivated enough to obtain three points from their opponents and get their season back on track.
Latest:
