Arsenal face Southampton in the League Cup tomorrow night, and the game represents a chance for the squad players to show their worth. With the North London derby on the horizon, the Gunners will need to rotate their squad for this fixture. Here’s how the Gunners could line up tomorrow:
Goalkeeper: David Ospina
Arsenal’s Colombian has a real chance to stake his claim for a first team spot in this fixture. He is likely to have a lot to do, considering Arsenal’s defence is so young and inexperienced.
Defence: Hector Bellerin, Calum Chambers, Isaac Hayden, Francis Coquelin
The fact that Coquelin could be the most experienced player in this back line is a worry. But with a lack of senior defenders, Arsenal have to take this risk. Bellerin and Chambers have recently been introduced to the first team and with Monreal out, Coquelin may have to cover at full back. We cannot afford to risk Koscielny or Mertesacker.
Defensive Midfield: Mathieu Flamini, Abou Diaby;
Abou Diaby could make his long awaited first team return in this game. He’s had minutes with the reserves, let’s hope he comes through this tie unscathed.
Attacking Midfield: Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain, Tomas Rosicky, Joel Campbell
I hope Chamberlain starts this one, he started on Saturday but he needs some games back to back. I don’t expect him to feature against Tottenham from the start, so this game represents a good chance for him to keep up his form. Joel Campbell needs a game so I really hope he starts this one.
Striker: Lukas Podolski
Whilst I’d like to see Chuba Akpom given a chance up top, I think there are too many senior players in these attacking positions to give him a start. Lukas Podolski could well be given a run out and with that, another chance to prove himself as a central striker. I really don’t think it works, but with Chamberlain and Campbell creating width and Rosicky supporting him, perhaps Lukas could show his clinical edge once again.