Arsenal vs Portsmouth predicted XI: Rotation, rotation, rotation

Attack

Mikel Arteta has yet to establish a true rotational attack, as he’s mostly been muddling rotation options in with the regular attackers. But against Portsmouth in the FA Cup, I’d hope he starts establishing a second-tier attack. Not that there can’t be any intermingling, but for the sake of consistency, and guys knowing when they can count on game time.

Regardless, I would expect Reiss Nelson to start. The season has not been to his liking, which goes without saying. He hasn’t been able to capitalize on that Hoffenheim loan, but it’s mostly because of injuries that this is the case. No one needs the game time more than he does.

Gabriel Martinelli should also start. It’s crazy to think that he isn’t a regular Premier League starter, but for the time being, these side competitions are his chance to strut his stuff, and we know for a fact he is more than capable of that.

Lastly, Alexandre Lacazette should keep the spot up top. I considered that Eddie Nketiah might get in there, just to get some more time, but Lacazette probably needs it more, honestly, with Nketiah likely to return to action against West Ham at the weekend.