BREAKING: Arteta names strongest lineups against Tottenham as TWO SIGNING returns from injury, poised to start in the London derby- WINNING IS SURE
As well as the selection dilemmas Mikel Arteta has ahead of the North London derby, the Arsenal manager also has some exciting opportunities.
Despite losing both Declan Rice and Martin Odegaard for Sunday, it shouldn’t be all doom and gloom at Arsenal, who have started the season extremely well.
The draw against Brighton & Hove Albion was resultant of Rice’s red – a decision that still doesn’t make sense in the eyes of many.
And although both Rice and Odegaard will be considerable losses in N17, the duo’s absences presents an opportunity for a few new chapters at Arsenal.
Arsenal may turn to Ethan Nwaneri to make his first Premier League start in the derby, even if Arteta has been reluctant to rush youngsters in the past.
But if he doesn’t, then there is an experienced head waiting for his own debut on the sidelines.
Raheem Sterling is ready for his dream start in the North London derby
Since joining the club on loan on deadline day, Raheem Sterling has already made a big effort off of the pitch to outline his commitment to Arsenal.
To his complement, Sterling is conducting himself like a player who has just signed a long-term deal in north London – the England star is evidently trying to inspire a new chapter in his career.
And given the absences and expected reshuffle of Arsenal’s midfield on Sunday, Arteta should start Sterling from the off.
Kai Havertz seems very likely to drop into midfield, leaving the number nine role vacant.
Gabriel Jesus doesn’t seem ready to start, and perhaps that will see Leandro Trossard play as a false nine.
In turn, the left-wing role will be free, and whilst Gabriel Martinelli would also be an excellent option, perhaps Sterling is the best-positioned to exploit the space Spurs often leave behind their defence.
Leandro Trossard might start as a false nine vs Tottenham
Interestingly, when the winger signed on loan, Micah Richards said Sterling was better than Martinelli and Trossard in some regards, and mentioned his runs over the top.
And perhaps it could be a clever plot for Arteta to take some attention off of his midfield by playing ‘unplayable’ Sterling on the left, who can handle the pressure that role would bring.
As the days and weeks pass, Arsenal’s bargain deal for Sterling seems increasingly smart, even if he’s yet to kick a ball in red.
Arsenal have signed an experienced head as well as someone who might even turn out to be a regular starter.
And after working closely with Sterling over the break, it wouldn’t be too much of a surprise if Arteta had a trick up his sleeve.
