Strongest Arsenal lineup to face Napoli

Laurent Koscielny

Arsenal travel to Italy to face Napoli in a crucial game that will determine the future of the group of death. Napoli need to outscore the gunners with a margin of three goals to qualify for the knock out stages (considering Dortmund to win against Marseille). Even though the odds are against Benitez’s side, Arsenal need to be careful not to take the game so lightly as Everton proved in weekend that Arsenal can be dominated on their own soil.

Strongest possible Arsenal lineup

Defence

Arsenal are probably the best defence in the league. What a season Per Mertesacker and Kocielny are having. The big German is a great leader on the pitch while his French counterpart is a beast when it comes to hard tackling gameplay. Steve Bould should be credited for turning one of most error-prone defences into a formidable one.

But, Arsenal still have some concerns regarding their back four. With the ever consistent Bacary Sagna ruled out with a hamstring injury, Carl Jenkinson is expected to start. Kieran Gibbs who had a poor game vs Everton should be rested and a chance should be given to Spanish left back Nacho Monreal.

Midfield – Play a double pivot

This is the right time for Wenger to start both Mathieu Flamini and Mikel Arteta together as a double pivot in the midfield. Even though this will effect team’s overall creativity, playing two defensive midfielders will restrict the opponents from dominating the midfield, which is a real key factor in these big games.

Aaron Ramsey looked tired against the Toffees and he deserves a rest too. Mesut Ozil should play behind the striker as a classic no 10 playmaker.

Attack

Olivier Giroud was very unlucky not to score the winning goal against Everton as his shot hit the crossbar during the closing stages of the game. As usual, Giroud will spearhead the attack while speedster Theo Walcott should be given his first start since coming back from that stomach injury. Theo’s pace will come handy at counter attacks. Cazorla to start from the left.

Sczcesny

Jenkinson – Mertesacker – Kocielny – Monreal

Flamini – Arteta

Walcott Cazorla

Ozil

Giroud