Friday, March 29, 2024

Arsenal vs. Chelsea: Team News And Likely Line-Ups

Arsenal welcome league leaders Chelsea to the Emirates this weekend, as they aim to build on an impressive home form.

After a late revival in the Premier League, the Gunners currently boast a record nine consecutive victories at the Emirates, a form which can only be beaten by Jose Mourinho’s men.

The Blues can snatch the title next weekend if they can find a way past both Arsenal and Leicester City, so the least the Gunners can do is stall Chelsea popping the champagne.

Fresh Arsenal have checked out all of the latest updates on squads for both sides, and provide a look at who could be starting this top of the table clash.

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Arsenal

Per Mertesacker – There is concern over the availability of the vice-captain after he sustained a slight injury against Reading last week. The boss admitted the defender was still 50/50 to start this weekend as he is still receiving treatment.

Wenger stated that if necessary, he will start Gabriel in place of the centre-back, after he showed how he can step up during last weeks FA Cup semi-final.

Mikel Arteta – The Spaniard is making good progress from his long-term injury, and is back in full training with the rest of the squad. He’s still a bit short physically but overall is looking like he’ll continue his career next year.

Oxlade-Chamberlain – Momentum is moving slowly with the England star, and it looks as if his season could be ending earlier than expected. The midfielder is still not in training and is in no contention for the game on Sunday.

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Chelsea

Diego Costa – The clubs top goalscorer will most likely be missing this one after being taken off in their game against Hull a few weeks ago. Jose Mourinho mentioned he will make a decision on Costa at the last minute but there is no need to risk him further.

Loic Remy – The back-up to Costa will also miss this one, after he failed to even make the bench for the visit of Manchester United last week.

Didier Drogba – Possibly back to haunt the Arsenal fans for one final time, but Drogba pulled out of a charity match in mid-week with a suspected ankle injury. He is favourite to start up top this Sunday however.

Likely Line-Ups

Arsenal XI: Ospina, Bellerin, Gabriel, Koscielny, Monreal, Coquelin, Cazorla, Ramsey, Ozil, Alexis, Giroud

Chelsea XI: Courtois, Ivanovic, Cahill, Terry, Azpilicueta, Matic, Zouma, Oscar, Fabregas, Hazard, Drogba

 

 

 

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