Arsenal Predicted Lineup vs Crystal Palace: Thomas Partey Back?

Forwards

Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang (LW) – He’s rediscovered his scoring touch! Well, not exactly, but he did manage to score from open play thanks to two superb passes from Xhaka and Tierney. Arteta outlined the importance of him getting that goal – one he felt warranted 120 minutes in the last encounter – a feeling that is shared among supporters.

Whether it’s a goal off the shin or a 35-yard screamer, strikers just need goals. Take Alexandre Lacazette‘s fluke against the Magpies last season as an example of what it can mean individually.

Alexandre Lacazette (ST) – You don’t drop a striker who’s scoring goals. Whether they’re tap-ins or otherwise, when the back of the net is regularly bulging it’s vital you ensure that is given the best chance to continue.

Beyond just Lacazette’s goals, he’s thriving with the addition of midfield runners playing off him, allowing him to play the closest thing to a two-man strike partnership, the kind that suits him best. Against a physical Palace back four, his own aggression and presence will be needed.

Bukayo Saka (RW) – In midfield, on the left wing or the right wing, it doesn’t matter where Bukayo Saka plays as long as he’s on the pitch. Taking up a slot on the right side of late, Arsenal have found greater symmetry in their structure that was previously too reliant on attacking the left flank.

Oozing confidence more than ever before, there is nobody else in the squad even close to challenging for his spot in the team.