Arsenal are hoping to build a winning momentum when they face Brighton & Hove Albion at the Amex Stadium on Tuesday. The Gunners are coming on the back of a much-needed 3-1 victory over rivals Chelsea, putting their winless streak to an end. They will be hoping for three more points this midweek as they look to finally kickstart their recovery after a disappointing start to the campaign.
Predicted Arsenal Lineup Vs Brighton & Hove Albion
Defence
Gabriel Magalhaes’ continued absence due to government protocols means Pablo Mari should once again get the nod at centre-back ahead of David Luiz and Shkodran Mustafi. The Spaniard is expected to continue his partnership in central defence alongside Rob Holding, with additional support from Kieran Tierney in the left-back position.
However, Arteta has given Tierney more freedom, in regards to his forays down the flanks in recent weeks. So a four-man backline is once again a possibility, with the ex-Celtic star operating in his preferred role.
Hector Bellerin, meanwhile, captained the team rather well in the win over Chelsea. He remains favourite to start at right-back, despite pressure from Ainsley Maitland-Niles. Arteta is also unlikely to ring in the changes knowing the importance of all three points in this fixture.
Similarly, Bernd Leno is also set to start over Runar Alex Runarsson in goal. The German will be desperate for a clean sheet this midweek after conceding a late goal against Chelsea.
Midfield
Arsenal are still missing out on the services of Thomas Partey heading into this game, so Arteta will have no option but to continue with Granit Xhaak and Mohamed Elneny in the double-pivot. Both of them performed well in the win over Chelsea and will be full of confidence heading into this fixture.
Dani Ceballos and Joe Willock are potential alternatives should Arteta look to make any changes from the side that started on the Boxing Day.
Attack
In the attacking third, Arteta has a major selection dilemma. Bukayo Saka, Emile Smith Rowe and Gabriel Martinelli are, without a doubt, favourites to start, judging by their performances in the last game. However, it could be one of those matches where the experience of Willian could be useful, even though the Brazilian is a slight doubt due to illness.
In the number nine role, Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang should return to the side at the expense of Alexandre Lacazette, although it would be very unfair to bench the Frenchman considering his performance against Chelsea.
