Arsenal vs Chelsea: 5 key players with so much on the line

4. Granit Xhaka

Granit Xhaka continues to prove just how important he is to this club, despite the complete lack of acknowledgment he gets. Even against Sheffield United, when he wasn’t at his sharpest, there were so many noticeable moments that did stand out as tremendous. He had that beautiful scoop pass to Mesut Ozil.

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He had the clearance off the line to deny Sheffield what might well have been a debilitating opening goal. He blocked a crucial shot in the 90th minute that denied Sheffield the late and likely final lead.

Xhaka was a hero. Even though he wasn’t able to establish the presence he often does.

Last time out against Chelsea, he didn’t play. It was still in the questionable stages of his future when we thought he would be leaving in the next few days. But this time out, we’re going to see something different. Putting him next to Lucas Torreira is more than enough to negate Kante, Jorginho or whatever we throw against him.

If Xhaka can do his usual here, we’re in for a treat.

Onwards to No. 3.