Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta may make a few changes for the huge Premier League clash against Manchester City on Wednesday night. The Gunners travel to the Etihad Stadium looking to extend their lead at the top of the table to eight points over the reigning champions.
Granit Xhaka was absent from the matchday squad that drew 3-3 against Southampton at the Emirates Stadium. When asked if the Switzerland international will be available against City, Arteta responded: "Granit has been out.
"Hopefully, he’ll be able to train today but he’s still a doubt. The rest are OK." William Saliba is set to miss the game as he continues to recover from a back injury that has kept him sidelined since the Europa League exit against Sporting CP last month.
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Fabio Vieira replaced Xhaka in the team that faced Saints at the weekend but the Portuguese playmaker struggled to make an impact on the game. This has left Arteta with a slight selection headache ahead of - arguably - Arsenal's most important fixture in the last 19 years as they chase down a first Premier League title since 2004.
The Gunners will hope they can dictate the game at the Etihad Stadium - a tough task for any team - which may see the introduction of Jorginho back into the starting XI. Thomas Partey and Martin Odegaard are two of the first names on the teamsheet for Arteta, but that last midfield spot is up for grabs in Xhaka's absence.
The Arsenal boss may have already hinted at his preferred selection after pictures have been released from training ahead of the game against City. Vieira was spotted taking part whilst wearing a pink bib, along with the likes of Leandro Trossard and Eddie Nketiah, suggesting he may be among the substitutes.
Jorginho, meanwhile, was not spotted wearing a pink bib in most training drills - hinting that the Italian could be due to start against Pep Guardiola's side on Wednesday night. Arteta will be hoping his midfield can get the better of City's, despite facing the likes of Kevin De Bruyne, Ilkay Gundogan and Rodri, whilst also having to keep Erling Haaland quiet.
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