MIKEL ARTETA has a squad selection dilemma with revenge and North London bragging rights on the line in the same week. Arsenal travel to Olympiacos on Thursday for the first leg of their Europa League last 16 tie. The Greek side last season knocked the Gunners out of the same tournament, with a last-gasp winner. […]
MIKEL ARTETA has a squad selection dilemma with revenge and North London bragging rights on the line in the same week.
Arsenal travel to Olympiacos on Thursday for the first leg of their Europa League last 16 tie.
The Greek side last season knocked the Gunners out of the same tournament, with a last-gasp winner.
But the Emirates boss will be mindful in playing his best 11, as they host rivals Tottenham just three days later.
Arteta said: “We have a massive week with the next four games that we have in a short period.
“We have to manage the squad but obviously the main game is tomorrow and we have to focus on that.
“Tomorrow’s game is going to help us for the weekend, it’s going to help us for next week. We have to focus on tomorrow.”
The only doubt for Olympiacos is playmaker Emile Smith-Rowe, who missed Arsenal’s 1-1 draw at Burnley last weekend.
Arteta said: “Yes, he’s close to returning and he’s going to have a full session today to see if he can be involved in tomorrow’s game.
“After training we will know exactly where we are with him.”
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Bernd Leno can expect to keep his place between the posts, with Hector Bellerin and Kieran Tierney at full-back.
David Luiz has partnered Pablo Mari for the last three matches, with Gabriel dropped to the bench.
But the Brazilian is fit and available to pair with countryman Luiz if Arteta rotates his backline.
Granit Xhaka has formed a formidable partnership with summer signing Thomas Partey.
But the ex-skipper was at fault at Turf Moor, with Dani Ceballos – who started Arsenal’s last game in Europe – a potential replacement if needed.
Going forward, Willian and Bukayo Saka have both impressed of late, so too has Nicolas Pepe.
All three will be in contention to start in Greece, but also face the prospect of being rested ahead of the derby with Spurs.
Skipper Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang has played centrally recently, but could also be shifted out wide if needed.
It would allow striker Alexandre Lacazette to return, while giving others the chance to catch a breather on the bench.
