Mikel Arteta shakes hands with his Arsenal players. (Getty Images)
Arsenal travel to Bramall Lane on Sunday as they are set to face off against Sheffield United in the FA Cup quarterfinals clash.
Mikel Arteta’s men returned to winning ways on Thursday with a 2-0 victory over Southampton. However, this is a different competition where anything can happen and so, nothing but a win would send them into the semifinals of the competition. For all the defensive troubles they have endured this season, the Gunners have conceded just once in this competition.
On the other hand, the Blades have looked like a shadow of themselves since the restart, with no wins in three league games yet. But they could harm Arsenal as they did in the previous encounter in the league.
Injuries have been a major concern for Arteta throughout the campaign. While Calum Chambers has been ruled out for the season, Lucas Torreira is yet to train with the squad. Pablo Mari, Gabriel Martinelli and Bernd Leno will be notable absentees as they were the latest to be injured. David Luiz returns from suspension.
The Argentine shot-stopper has filled in, in the place of first-choice Bernd Leno. He will retain his spot in goal and will be hoping to keep a clean sheet.
With Hector Bellerin’s not so convincing display against Southampton last time out, the youngster should be a given a chance. He needs to be playing regularly to keep his place in the team.
Sokratis, who hasn’t featured in the last three matches, should be given the nod ahead of Shkodran Mustafi, who seemed to be shaky in the last outing.
Holding proved his worth with a masterclass performance against Southampton. He deserves a start especially after missing out for the majority of the campaign due to injury.
The teenager has been one of the best players in the squad this season. He has been influential in both the attacking and defensive situations. He is in line to start at left-back, as Kieran Tierney may be rested after cramping up in the last game.
Xhaka returned to the squad in the last game and put in a decent performance. One of the senior figures in the team, he is likely to retain his spot and will be key in breaking the Blades’ attack
The 21-year-old is expected to return to the squad after missing out on the last game. He has done a decent job but needs to maintain his calm and focus on his performances.
Pepe needs to prove his worth by taking his game to the next level. He has been inconsistent throughout the campaign and that needs to take a turn for the good of the team. He is capable of taking on the opponent’s defence on his own and should be involved in terms of goals for his side.
Though he hasn’t established himself under Arteta, he has shown glimpses of his potential. His confidence would be boosted after scoring against the Saints. He should get the nod ahead of the others.
The 31-year-old is the Arsenal’s best player but has been unlucky since the restart. He needs to start scoring and help the team across the line.
The Frenchman has struggled and has also lost his place to Eddie Nketiah, who has started in the last few games. Lacazette is expected to lead the line on Sunday.
