Alexis Sanchez vs Danny Simpson
With Arsene Wenger reiterating it in every press conference and post-match interviews that the Chilean international is staying at the club next season, fans just might start to believe now that all that speculation of high wage figures and displeasure, which they see in tabloids every morning wouldn’t be enough for the player to leave Emirates.
Arsenal are willing to gamble on their star’s future now, hoping they would convince him to stay beyond the next season. And Sanchez has left his professionalism unquestioned at the club. Even at tumultuous times, when nothing went in favour of the club, the Chilean has always shown up. He has scored 19 goals and nine assists in 29 league outings so far and will most likely add to his tally.
It goes without saying that Simpson will have a horrendous time defending against Sanchez and three at the back means the left wing-back will keep coming. With Wes Morgan out of the fixture, the back line has already weakened for the Foxes and Sanchez will be exploiting them at will. Although Leicester will be fresh from their hard-fought draw against a dynamic Leicester side, handling Arsenal at their home could be too much to handle.
Granit Xhaka vs Danny Drinkwater
The Swiss international was simply fabulous in the last game and it seems like his gameplay suits the new setup. With Aaron Ramsey, constantly available alongside him to play the one-touch, Xhaka uses his physique well to get out of tight situations. City, with their tight passing and the beautiful skilled display, was by far the toughest challenge for this setup and the Swiss international was up for his task.
Although fatigue will play a big part for the player, who looked strong and unshakeable for the full 120 minutes, Wenger will hope his most consistent man to be present there with the same intensity.
Craig Shakespeare will have the experienced Danny Drinkwater taking his position opposite him. And while the 27-year-old doesn’t possess the sublime dribbling skills and beautiful passing abilities like Yaya Toure, his incessant pressing could definitely unlock openings in Arsenal defence.
Jamie Vardy vs Laurent Koscielny
The former season’s star striker has faded hugely this season, but there is still a chance that he creates a lasting impression. He has scored 11 times and assisted five times so far and could be a threat for Arsenal. Under new boss, Shakespeare, the 30-year-old has found a renewed confidence and in a more advanced position looks all the more dangerous.
Arsenal’s defence is enjoying a rare confidence this year and should see out this Leicester attack easily. Skipper Koscielny stays the deepest among the last three and will see more of Vardy. This duel could change the outcome of the game.
