Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has made four changes to the starting line-up for today’s Premier League derby against Crystal Palace at the Emirates Stadium.
The Gunners are currently on a three-match winless streak with two of those defeats in the top-flight. They will be aiming to return to winning ways this afternoon.
Ahead of the game, Arteta has opted for four changes from the 2-0 loss to Liverpool in the FA Cup third round where the Gunners had plenty of chances to score.
At the back, David Raya has returned in goal ahead of Aaron Ramsdale. The Spanish star has been an undisputed starter in the league since mid-September.
In defence, Oleksandr Zinchenko has made a surprise return after recovering from a calf problem. He has reclaimed the left-back position from Jakub Kiwior.
Declan Rice and Kai Havertz will form the central midfield with Jorginho making way to the bench.
There are a couple of changes in the final third. Gabriel Jesus will lead the line after recovering from a minor knee issue. He will be eyeing his first goal since mid-December.
Elsewhere, Leandro Trossard has got the nod ahead of Gabriel Martinelli and Reiss Nelson on the left wing. The Belgian has already made eight goal contributions this term.
Predicted Arsenal line-up (4-2-3-1) vs Crystal Palace: Raya; White, Saliba, Gabriel, Zinchenko; Rice, Havertz; Saka, Odegaard, Trossard; Jesus.
The Gunners are currently five points adrift of leaders Liverpool after back-to-back losses before the turn of the year. They have the opportunity to temporarily close the gap to two points.
In our view, it is a must-win game for Arteta’s side. Any other result against the Eagles could dampen their title pursuit, given the consistency of Manchester City and Liverpool.
