Mikel Arteta has named his strongest possible lineup for the Brentford game, with Emile Smith Rowe starting, while Takehiro Tomiyasu returns to the bench.
Gabriel Martinelli’s absence due to a suspension has given Emile Smith Rowe a starting berth against Brentford as Arsenal have named a strong lineup to face them in the Premier League. Mikel Arteta will hope this team does enough to keep pressure on their top-four rivals.
Takehiro Tomiyasu, who has returned from a calf injury, finds himself on the bench as Cedric Soares continues to deputise at right-back. Ben White and Gabriel keep their central defensive partnership intact, with Kieran Tierney fairly established at left-back. Aaron Ramsdale is the preferred choice in goal, with Bernd Leno back among the substitutes.
? TEAM NEWS!
?? Cedric starts
? Xhaka and Partey in midfield
? Saka x Smith Rowe#ARSBRE— Arsenal (@Arsenal) February 19, 2022
Thomas Partey and Granit Xhaka keep their central midfield partnership intact, while the bench looks strong with Mohamed Elneny and Albert Sambi Lokonga as options. Martin Odegaard is chosen to play in the advanced midfield role behind the front three.
Alexandre Lacazette leads the line wearing the captain’s armband, with Bukayo Saka and Emile Smith Rowe on either flank. Eddie Nketiah and Nicolas Pepe could provide options off the bench if needed.
Arsenal Starting Lineup: Ramsdale; Cedric, White, Gabriel, Tierney; Partey, Xhaka. Saka, Odegaard, Smith-Rowe; Lacazette
