Arsenal will be looking to bounce back from their draw with Liverpool last weekend when they travel to the London Stadium to take on West Ham United in the Premier League on Saturday.
Mikel Arteta’s side had won seven consecutive league matches before their trip to Anfield, and they will be hoping to continue their impressive run of form against the Hammers.
However, the Gunners will be without centre-back William Saliba for the clash, while there are concerns over the availability of left-back Oleksandr Zinchenko. The Ukrainian did not participate in training on Tuesday, but it remains to be seen whether he will feature in Arteta’s starting line-up.
No Zinchenko or Ben White in open training today, but club confirm that’s not down to injury, just players having a separate gym session. #Arsenal #AFC
— James Green (@JamesGreenInUK) April 11, 2023
If Zinchenko is ruled out, Kieran Tierney is likely to deputise at left-back. The Scottish international has struggled for game time this season, leading to speculation over his future at the club. However, former Arsenal right-back Lauren has urged the Gunners to keep hold of Tierney.
Speaking to sportingpost.com, Lauren said: “He’s a very good player. We saw it against Spain in the recent international for Scotland and he played very well. He understands the ideas of Arteta now – rather than being in the wide areas, tucking inside and being like another midfield player, receiving the ball from the centre backs and then starting the moves from there.”
Lauren also stressed the importance of having a strong squad, saying: “You need everyone and you need Kieran to be in the squad. You never know from now, anything can happen with injuries and he needs to be focused and to play the way he is being asked by Arteta. For Arsenal, you need the bigger squad and they should keep him.”
Arsenal currently sit three points clear at the top of the Premier League table, although they are only ahead of Manchester City on goal difference. The Gunners will be determined to maintain their position at the summit with a win over West Ham.
Zinchenko has been a key player for Arsenal since arriving at the Emirates Stadium last summer, playing a crucial role in the team’s improved form. The 26-year-old has been deployed as an inverted fullback in possession, helping the Gunners to improve their ability in the build-up phase.
However, if Zinchenko is absent, Tierney will be looking to make the most of his opportunity to impress. The 24-year-old has shown glimpses of his quality in his limited appearances this season, and he will be eager to stake his claim for a regular starting spot.
Saka made one transfer and vice captained himself.
Shaw ➡ AkéRank: 662K pic.twitter.com/igVdib4JKH
— FPL Focal (@FPLFocal) April 15, 2023
Arsenal will need to be at their best against a dangerous West Ham side, who are currently in fifth place in the Premier League table. The Hammers have been one of the surprise packages of the season so far, with David Moyes’ side exceeding expectations with their performances.
The Gunners will be hoping to silence their critics by securing another important win in their quest for the Premier League title. With a talented squad at their disposal, Arteta’s men will be confident of coming away from the London Stadium with all three points.
