Allan and Abdoulaye Doucoure will start at the base of the midfield
Midfield:
Central midfield: Allan
Allan was constantly outnumbered in the game against Liverpool. He could have the job to take on Martin Odegaard and restrict the Norwegian in the middle of the park. Cutting out passes, pressuring opponents and winning the ball back will be the player’s primary role.
However, with Thomas Partey, Sambi Lonkonga and Odegaard in the middle for Arsenal, the Brazilian may find himself outnumbered again if not provided with adequate support.
Central midfield: Abdoulaye Doucoure
Since return from injury, Abdoulaye Doucoure has found it difficult to get back to pace which hasn’t helped given the poor run of results. He has slowly grown into games but at times more is expected of him, given he had a stellar start to the season.
Right wide midfield: Andros Townsend
Andros Townsend had a bland affair against Liverpool, not much of an improvement from the horror show against Brentford. The Englishman will have to support Coleman while also increase his attacking output. Townsend’s services from the flank have dropped recently and he will be hoping to enhance his deliveries.
Left wide midfield: Anthony Gordon
Anthony Gordon was dropped in favour of Salomon Rondon in the last game. Gordon could make a return to the starting lineup as Rondon’s availability remains a mystery. The 20-year-old has bags of potential and lately, he has been showing signs of progress and maturity. His hard work hasn’t gone unnoticed. Gordon will have an interesting battle with Takehiro Tomiyasu.