LONDON, ENGLAND - FEBRUARY 27: Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang of Arsenal FC celebrates after scoring his team's first goal in extra-time during the UEFA Europa League round of 32 second leg match between Arsenal FC and Olympiacos FC at Emirates Stadium on February 27, 2020 in London, United Kingdom. (Photo by Mike Hewitt/Getty Images)
Arsenal host David Moyes’ West Ham on Saturday afternoon at the Emirates in a Premier League encounter.
After being knocked out of the Europa League, Mikel Arteta’s men put in a fine performance in the FA Cup against Portsmouth. Nothing but a win against their London rivals would keep their hopes of qualifying for the European competition alive.
On the other hand, West Ham would be hoping to take maximum points from the Emirates after getting the much-needed confidence in the 3-1 win against Southampton.
While Calum Chambers is set to be out for the rest of the season, Sead Kolasinac and Kieran Tierney are inching closer to a return to the squad.
Lucas Torreira will be a notable absentee for this fixture after picking up an ankle injury in midweek in the FA Cup tie against Portsmouth.
The German shot-stopper is the first choice in goal for the Gunners and is expected to return to his spot after a break in midweek.
Bellerin was not at his best against Olympiacos but is expected to start in this fixture ahead of Ainsley-Maitland Niles. He needs to be effective while moving forward.
The Brazilian will be in charge of the defensive line against the Hammers. He has done well in the latter stages of the season and would be hoping to help the team with a clean sheet.
The winter signing was excellent on his debut for Arsenal in the FA Cup. He should be given another chance to partner with Luiz in the heart of the defence.
The teenager has been fine form despite playing in an unnatural position. He will be an undoubted starter as he is capable of providing assists to the forwards.
Xhaka will be expected to play the anchoring role. He needs to be at his best to stop the Hammers’ attack and get the better of their midfield.
The Frenchman is expected to fill in the place of the injured Torreira.
Despite the team’s inconsistency, the captain has been delivering for his side except for the game against the Greek champions. He would be hoping to add some more to his tally.
Ozil needs to be at his best to unlock West Ham’s defence. He is preferred in the No:10 role ahead of other youngsters and is likely to start.
The Ivorian has been lively in the second half of the season and should be able to get the better of the opponent’s shaky defence.
The Frenchman needs to take his game to the next level as he has been without the required goals in recent months. He should be able to find the back of the net for Arsenal.
