This is the most probable and most likely lineup we can expect to see vs Middlesborough in the FA Cup on the 15th February 2015.
Goalkeeper :
Unfortunately, the last few games for David Ospina have been some of his worst, during a shaky win vs Leicester and a loss to local rivals Tottenham. While picking up a niggle against Tottenham, I would possibly start Wojciech Szczesny, to give Ospina a break from his struggling run of games.
Left-Back :
Nacho Monreal has had a nice run in the team, following an injury to the first choice left-back Kieran Gibbs. Although the team have had 2 pretty poor results on the bounce, Nacho has played very well in his position, and hopefully he can use this form and kick-off for a long cup run.
Centre Backs :
He has to make his debut at some point, so I think the FA Cup at home will be a great start for Gabriel Paulista. Playing alongside Nacho (where both can communicate in Spanish) could be a big boost for Gabriel, as his language barrier may be an issue with his central partner. With him, we will most likely see Per Mertesacker keeping his place in the squad, giving Laurent Koscielny a well deserved rest. Gabriel and Koscielny play very similar, and so could be the start of a new friendship in the middle of the defence.
Right-Back :
At 19, Hector Bellerin has been thrown into the first team, following multiple injuries to first choice Matthieu Debuchy. But with a Champions League game close by and very important league matches, Bellerin will need to take a seat on the bench eventually. As for Calum Chambers, this is his perfect opportunity to play. His strength and power can be a useful asset against Patrick Bamford, who scored the winner at the Etihad last round against Manchester City. In this case, Chambers should start, and possibly man mark the Middlesborough danger man Bamford.
Central Midfield :
Reports claim that Aaron Ramsey will be out for around a month, and Jack Wilshere has reportedly suffered a set back, meaning that neither will partake in this round. Wenger seems happy to play an attacking minded player in Ramsey in an defensive position instead. His form from last season hasn’t been reached yet, but has now got to wait until he can fully play once more. This opens the door to Tomas Rosicky to try and keep his place in the first team. At 34, he is still able to outrun players 10 years younger, he has the drive and passion to spur a team on. Alongside Francis Coquelin, I would like to see Rosicky get a full 90 minutes. Coquelin himself will need to cover the ‘Chambers vs Bamford’ battle, and will be stretched against a team who also beat Manchester City earlier this year. It will be a midfield fight, but I think this duo can get the job done.
Left Midfield :
Alexis is injured! A very serious statement that Arsenal fans have been dreading. But hopefully he isn’t out for too long. The new lease of life for Walcott has come at the perfect time, and so he can play on the LW spot for his trademark ‘darting run’.
Central Attacking Midfield :
Mesut Özil has had a great run since returning from injury, with 3 goals and 3 assists in 4 games. Cazorla will need to take a break from the team, due to his tiring performances in recent games. I’m sure Özil can do the job though.
Right Midfield :
Possibly the return of Danny Welbeck at RM could be an interesting selection for Wenger. He has played here recently and for Manchester United, and plays quite well with his power and pace combined.
Striker :
A lone striker of Olivier Giroud or Chuba Akpom could be expected here, with no striker problems at the moment. A more than likely selection of Giroud will show Wenger’s intent for a victory, with such a strong lineup. I would love to see Akpom get a short time on the pitch nonetheless.