If Arsenal are to ensure they keep up with their title rivals, then getting the starting line-up right from the first whistle is Wenger’s biggest task.
Having played just over 48 hours ago, the boss is likely to make changes to his XI which will not only inject some pace into the side, but provide a pointer for the weekend.
The Gunners make the trip to Preston on Saturday afternoon to battle their way into the fourth round of the FA Cup, and everyone in this squad will want to feature.
Goalkeeper: Petr Cech
Not much to consider here, because with a trip to Preston to look forward to on Saturday, David Ospina should be getting his gloves warmed up for that one. Cech was given an easy ride on Sunday afternoon so he’s bound to start tonight.
Full-Backs: Hector Bellerin and Nacho Monreal
If Gibbs is fit then of course he has to start, but if not it looks as if Monreal will want another go at maintaining his place in the left full-back position. The Spaniard wasn’t given too much trouble against Palace so he should be ready to go again.
Centre Back’s: Shkodran Mustafi & Laurent Koscielny
Mustafi’s been back in a couple of full training sessions and after sitting out the last game, he should be well on his way to return to the starting XI. Both of these guys are likely to be given a rest during the FA Cup tie at the weekend so it’s a perfect chance for them to give 110%.
Centre Defensive Midfield: Granit Xhaka and Francis Coquelin
With Mohamed Elneny off to the Africa Cup of Nations, it’s now time for these two to establish a partnership that puts confidence back in the supporters. Coquelin played the final 25 minutes against Palace, and with Ramsey back to full fitness these two won’t be ready to let up of their starting place.
Right Midfield: Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain
I was immensely impressed by Lucas Perez against Palace, his work rate was superb and that’s what we need to see from people competing for a regular place. However, Chambo has got the legs to go from the off this evening and he’ll be keen to play in a fixture he scored in last season. Walcott remains injured, both he and Welbeck could be in with a chance of playing at the weekend.
Centre Attacking Midfield: Aaron RamseyÂ
Reports are suggesting Mesut Ozil remains sidelined with a cold, so to keep things fresh in midfield it’d be great to see Rambo play through the middle. He’s always stated how much he loves this position and excelled for Wales during last year’s Euro’s.
Left Midfield: Alexis Sanchez
Let’s be honest, fitness doesn’t really pose as much of a problem for Alexis and there’s nothing anybody could say that would keep him from playing tonight. He came so close to bagging a goal against Palace and despite his assist to Giroud, will want to get on the scoresheet this week.
Centre Forward: Olivier Giroud
The man of the moment, and as the old saying goes ‘if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it’. Giroud is thriving with confidence at the moment so keep him up top. Not only will that goal have been a huge boost for his ability, it will give him the mentality to try new things and take bigger risks whilst out on the pitch.
Want more Arsenal views like this? Follow us on Twitter @Fresh_Arsenal!