Arsenal will be looking for revenge tonight as they host a Southampton side who beat them convincingly 4-0 last month.
Arsene Wenger will hope that with Francis Coquelin and Alexis Sanchez back in contention, the Gunners have more quality on the pitch to win the return fixture.
Danny Welbeck is back in training, but will not be involved in the first team squad for this one. Having been out for nearly 12 months, the English forward is set to be involved in the under 21’s before re-integrating into the first team matchday squad.
With all that in mind, here’s how I’d like to see the Gunners line-up on Saturday.
Goalkeeper: Petr Cech
Need I say more?
Right Back: Hector Bellerin
Centre Back: Gabriel Paulista
Mertesacker’s woeful red card against Chelsea is not the only reason I think he should be dropped. Gabriel is more suited to handling Shane Long, who caused such problems for us at St Mary’s. I think the Brazilian defender has huge potential, but he needs regular playing time to realise that, give him the chance now.
Centre Back: Laurent Koscielny
Left Back: Nacho Monreal
Monreal was one of a few key players to sit out of the FA Cup game. His re-assuring presence back in the squad will be essential for this fixture.
Defensive Midfield: Francis Coquelin
Coquelin managed to come through 70 minutes against Burnley unscathed and is likely to now start his first Premier League game of the year. Alongside Ramsey, the duo could form an impressive partnership.
Central Midfield: Aaron Ramsey
Right Wing: Joel Campbell
Left Wing: Alexis Sanchez
Campbell and Alexis haven’t really had the chance to play together yet. With both players in the team I think Arsenal could play with a pressing game and seriously tire the opposition.
Attacking Midfield: Mesut Ozil
Ozil was left out of the squad for the FA Cup game, a chance for the German to put his feet up with the games set to come thick and fast again. Hopefully, this game will see him return to his very best.
Striker: Olivier Giroud
Giroud needs to start up front, but he will now be under pressure from both Theo Walcott and Welbeck for his place. That should, bring out the best in the Frenchman, who thrives under pressure.