The importance of the match is not lost on anyone. With Tottenham dropping points, Arsenal win their next two matches, including the North London Derby, and Champions League football will return to the Emirates.
Therefore, the importance of Mikel Arteta getting his team right today was imperative. The Spaniard has not been afraid to make big calls and show his consistency, but the inclusion of Cedric Soares at what appears to be left-back has created quite the stir amongst Arsenal fans.
Nuno Tavares had been starting the games up until this point. However, Arteta has clearly preferred the experience of the Portuguese international for what is a must-win for Arsenal.
READ MORE: Arsenal vs Leeds United LIVE: Cedric starts at left-back, team news confirmed, WSL title race
Yet this was not the most popular decision with some supporters. Tavares, despite his struggles, has clearly won over more fans than perhaps we imagined, although Cedric has never instilled great confidence from the whole of the supporter base.
@AlfieCulshaw: Cedric left-back. Why? Just why?
@cynorix: Hate the idea of Tomi and Cedric. We should persevere with Tavares
@ArsenalNewsTV1: Cedric at left back wrong decision in my opinion
@FredrelChezet: Would have preferred Tavares at left back there. Cedric, is he much better?
@micky_sims: Surprised he ain't gone for attacking Taveres today , this kind of game suits him. Unless he is resting him for spurs
However, some supporters have a different theory. Tomiyasu could possibly be the one that is given the job at left-back.
@AFCReiner: I'm assuming that Tomi will be LB? It's said that he can play anywhere in defense, or is Cedric there?
@strangequark77: He's playing left back, Tomi is right back.
@ftblcam7: could be Tomiyasu since he's ambidextrous
@Openmindedgy: Tomiyasu at LB vs Rodrygo / Raphinha makes much more sense. Will be tough
From my perspective, this is a move that does make sense. Tavares has looked defensively vulnerable and going up against Tottenham on Thursday. The Gunners need to be as solid as possible.
Bedding in the option of Cedric against Leeds provides time to test the system with both the experienced defender and Tomiyasu. However, Arsenal cannot afford to take this first game lightly and will need to be on it to claim all three points.
