LONDON, ENGLAND - FEBRUARY 27: Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang of Arsenal FC celebrates with teammates 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. (Getty Images)
Arsenal travel to the South Coast as they take on Brighton and Hove Albion on Saturday at the AMEX Stadium after their game against Manchester City was called off.
Mikel Arteta’s men are heading into the game on the back of a hard-fought 1-0 win against West Ham. They need to take maximum points to keep their hopes of qualifying for Europe alive. But it will not be an easy fixture as the Seagulls had defeated them earlier in the season.
However, given Brighton’s recent form, the Gunners have an extra edge and should be able to come out victorious with a decent margin.
Calum Chambers and Sead Kolasinac are ruled of the game as they are still under treatment for the injuries, they picked up earlier. And Lucas Torreira is set to be on the sidelines after injuring his ankle a few weeks back. He will be a notable absentee.
At the same time, Kieran Tierney and Cedric Soares are doubtful for the fixture due to a lack of fitness.
The German shot-stopper was brilliant in the last outing and will retain his spot as he is the first-choice in goal for Arsenal.
Bellerin has been troubled with injuries but should return to the line-up after missing out against the Hammers. He will need to support the team’s attack.
The Brazilian is expected to retain his spot and need to stop Brighton’s attacking unit. He needs to be a leader at the back.
Mari has been excellent for the Gunners since his debut. He will partner Luiz in the heart of the defence.
The teenager has done an exceptional job in an unfavoured position so far. He will be an undoubted starter in the absence of the other left-backs.
The Spaniard has got his fair share of game time under Arteta but needs to be decisive in the attacking phase. He is expected to start ahead of Matteo Guendouzi.
The Swiss international should play a key role in breaking the opponent’s play. He will be partnering Ceballos in midfield in the absence of Lucas Torreira.
Despite the team’s inconsistency, Aubameyang has been scoring regularly for the Arteta’s side. He will be expected to make a huge contribution by scoring a handful of goals.
Ozil looks confident since the arrival of the new manager. He should be able to provide a lot of goalscoring opportunities in the final third and will be expected to construct Arsenal’s game.
The Ivorian should look to take on the opponent’s defence as he is capable of doing so. Needs to get an assist or two for the welfare of the team.
The Frenchman seems to have switched off in the last few weeks but should start ahead of Eddie Nketiah and regain his form by scoring at the right time.
