There was good news and bad news this week for Arsenal. They survived a tricky Champions League qualifier with a goal worth an estimated £25m from new signing Alexis Sanchez, but lost fellow striker Olivier Giroud for a lengthy spell through injury, tempering their early-season optimism. Arsenal have looked rather unimpressive in the Premier League so far, requiring late goals to take four points from games against Crystal Palace and Everton, while Leicester also drew 2-2 with the Toffees in their first home game of the season and could give a debut to stellar new signing Esteban Cambiasso.
Leicester are waiting to see if they first receive international clearance for new high-profile signing Esteban Cambiasso before making a decision on his availability. Former Argentina international Cambiasso signed a one-year deal with City on Thursday after becoming a free agent following his release from Inter Milanafter a 10-year spell with the Serie A giants. Definitely ruled out of the game with the Gunners are midfielder Matty James (shin) and defender Matthew Upson (foot), otherwise manager Nigel Pearson has a full squad to choose from.
Arsenal midfielder Aaron Ramsey returns after missing midweek Champions League action because of suspension. Midfielder Mikel Arteta continues to be sidelined with an ankle problem and goalkeeper David Ospina is close to completing his recovery from a thigh strain. Striker Olivier Giroud (tibia), full-back Kieran Gibbs (hamstring) and winger Theo Walcott (knee) are in the treatment room.
Alexis Sánchez opened his account for Arsenal in the Champions League in midweek and Arsène Wenger will be hoping it is the first of many goals for the Chile international. With Olivier Giroud ruled out until the New Year, Wenger is relying on Alexis to prove he can be a threat through the middle.