Arsenal vs Chelsea predicted XI: Let’s finally win one, shall we?

LONDON, ENGLAND - JANUARY 18: Mikel Arteta, manager of Arsenal gesticulates during the Premier League match between Arsenal FC and Sheffield United at Emirates Stadium on January 18, 2020 in London, United Kingdom. (Photo by Clive Mason/Getty Images)
LONDON, ENGLAND - JANUARY 18: Mikel Arteta, manager of Arsenal gesticulates during the Premier League match between Arsenal FC and Sheffield United at Emirates Stadium on January 18, 2020 in London, United Kingdom. (Photo by Clive Mason/Getty Images) /
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(Photo by Clive Mason/Getty Images) /

Defense

It’s never my favorite when we have so few options on the defense. I have to say I thoroughly enjoyed being able to grip about why Calum Chambers would possible not be starting over Sokratis. It’s one of my favorite past times.

More from Pain in the Arsenal

These days, it’s between four guys: Shkodran Mustafi, David Luiz, Sokratis and Rob Holding. We know that David Luiz will be starting, because he’s been the most consistent of the bunch. We know what if it can be helped, Mustafi won’t be starting.

Sokratis didn’t start against Sheffield because he was ill. That has probably passed by now. Meaning that it’s just a matter of how saucy Mikel Arteta is feeling. Does he want to start Rob Holding or stick with the veteran combo that’s been working so well together?

Easy—stick with Sokratis and David Luiz. These two have been so good since Mikel Arteta’s come to town and I have all the faith that they can keep that going here. Even if it isn’t a long term solution, it’s a solution for now.

Midfield is next.