Arsenal team news vs Tottenham: Predicted line up – Emery drops Ozil hint, seven doubtful
MESUT OZIL could drop to the bench when Arsenal face Tottenham in the north London derby this afternoon despite impressing against Bournemouth last time out.
Arsenal team news: Mesut Ozil could drop to the bench against Tottenham (Image: GETTY•buildlineup.com)
Mesut Ozil is not guaranteed a starting berth when Arsenal take on Tottenham at Wembley, despite scoring and providing an assist against Bournemouth.
The German midfielder was in fine form as the Gunners smashed Eddie Howe’s side 5-1 in midweek, although a place in the starting XI is still not nailed on.
“Home, away, depending on the opposition. The most important thing is every player is okay for tomorrow.”
When asked specifically why Ozil has been in and out of the team, Emery said: “He had injuries, his back, then he was sick. That’s the reason.
“I spoke with him, I spoke to you telling that when he can be consistent, available for training, it’s better for us.”
Aaron Ramsey is most likely to start in the No 10 role if Ozil drops to the bench, although Henrikh Mkhitaryan should also start in support of Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang.
Arsenal team news: The German midfielder scored and provided an assist against Bournemouth (Image: GETTY)
Alexandre Lacazette will hope to partner the Gabon striker in attack while Alex Iwobi is also in contention to feature, depending on the Gunners’ formation.
Emery’s comment that “every player is okay” suggests that Laurent Koscielny, Sead Kolasinac and Stephan Lichtsteiner have all recovered from knocks.
Ainsley Maitland-Niles is also expected back after illness while Granit Xhaka was rested last time out and should return alongside Lucas Torreira.
However, Hector Bellerin, Rob Holding (both knee) and Danny Welbeck (ankle) remain long-term absentees.
Arsenal team news: Is this how Unai Emery's side will line up against Tottenham? (Image: buildlineup.com)
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Arsenal predicted line-up vs Tottenham Hotspur – Premier League