Predicted Arsenal starting XI vs Fulham

The Gunners are on a roll. With 8 straight wins in 8 games across all competitions, Unai Emery’s men are starting to find their groove after two straight defeats in the first two games in the Premier League.

The Gunners are currently positioned 5th in the points table. As they look to march towards the top, they need to continue their winning streak. Level on points with their arch-rivals Tottenham Hotspur, the Gunners would certainly fancy their chances to overtake them as they take on Fulham away at Craven Cottage.

Here is how they are expected to line up against the Cottagers.

Goalkeeper

Bernd Leno will be given his first Premier League start

With Petr Cech out for a month with a hamstring injury, the Gunners have no choice but to persist with Bernd Leno. The summer signing, who disappointed in his first two games against Vorskla and Brentford, was in inspired form after replacing the injured Cech against Watford, denying Troy Deeney a goal with a spectacular save.

He was immense in the Europa League tie against Qarabag, making a plethora of fine saves. He will start in the goal and is expected to show his quality

Defence

Sokratis will likely replace Rob Holding at the heart of the defence alongside Mustafi

The fullbacks pick themselves with the Spaniards, Hector Bellerin and Nacho Monreal, sure to start. Sead Kolasinac, although returned from injury, might have to do with a place on the bench.

The Spanish fullbacks will complete the back four.

Sokratis is likely to be partnered with Shkodran Mustafi although Rob Holding excelled as the central defender in the absence of Sokratis.

The young Englishman may have to wait for a while to be given a start in the Premier League this term.

Midfield

Lucas Torreira will partner Xhaka

Lucas Torreira and Granit Xhaka have emerged as the sure-fire starters at the base of the midfield. The former gives protection to the defence while the later dictate the tempo from the deep. Guendouzi, who scored his debut goal for the club against Qarabag, will start from the bench.

with Mesut Ozil as the attacking midfielder

The No.10 role was Aaron Ramsey’s so far. However, the Spanish head coach might tinker with the idea of giving Mesut Ozil, his favourite position. Ramsey, who is set to walk away from the club at the end of the season, might be phased out of the club slowly and might be dropped to the bench against Fulham.

Attack

Aubameyang and Lacazette will lead the attack

Alexandre Lacazette will retain his place as the most advanced player in the Gunners’ line-up with Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang shunted to the wing.

with Iwobi completing the trio.

Mesut Ozil’s inclusion as the number 10 will likely result in Alex Iwobi, who hasn’t put a foot wrong this season, getting a start as the second winger in the Unai Emery’s starting XI.