Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta faces a major team selection dilemma in attack for the Gunners' decisive Premier League clash against Liverpool on Sunday. Bukayo Saka, arguably Arsenal's best attacker this season, was left on the bench for last weekend's victory over Leeds after suffering with illness in the week, but the winger looks set to make his starting return.
The quartet that played against Leeds of Gabriel Jesus, Gabriel Martinelli, Leandro Trossard and Martin Odegaard have all had periods of electric form this season and would be unfortunate to drop out. Due to his long-term injury absence though, Jesus would be the expected star to be named on the bench at the weekend, however the Brazilian sent a clear reminder that he can have a major impact in the title run-in with an impressive brace last weekend.
With Arteta confirming Saka is "fine" and therefore available, the Spaniard has all five of his main first-team attackers fit. When asked about managing the competition for places, he said: "It depends on their moment, it depends on what we want to do and the qualities that we’re seeking, and the relationships that there is.
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"When you have five changes you have the ability to change the game. It’s much better to have this problem because at the moment they’re really good."
Jesus' statement display at Emirates Stadium in the 4-1 win over Leeds likely confirms he will keep his place which would mean January arrival Trossard could be the forward to drop out. However, the Belgian international has already delivered a scintillating performance at Anfield when he scored a hat-trick for Brighton in a 3-3 draw earlier this season and Arteta's comments on that achievement certainly hint that Trossard will be involved.
"It’s great to have a player who has experienced something really nice and positive at that stadium," Arteta said. "He was a crucial player that day and it was a beautiful game to watch. That’s what we need, a lot of players on the pitch with belief that we can go there and win."
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