Arsenal predicted lineup vs Leeds: Who replaces Thomas Partey?

LIVERPOOL, ENGLAND - DECEMBER 19: Dani Ceballos of Arsenal is challenged by Mohamed Elneny of Arsenal during the warm up prior to the Premier League match between Everton and Arsenal at Goodison Park on December 19, 2020 in Liverpool, England. A limited number of fans (2000) are welcomed back to stadiums to watch elite football across England. This was following easing of restrictions on spectators in tiers one and two areas only. (Photo by Clive Brunskill/Getty Images) /

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BIRMINGHAM, ENGLAND – FEBRUARY 06: Martin Odegaard looks set to make his full Arsenal debut on Sunday in the Premier League clahs with Leeds (Photo by James Williamson – AMA/Getty Images) /

Midfielders

Dani Ceballos (CM) – With Partey set to miss a couple of games due to a hamstring strain, Spanish midfielder Ceballos should replace the former Atletico man at the base of Mikel Arteta’s midfield. The Spaniard was performing relatively well prior to Partey’s injury return and boasts a much more impressive passing range than Elneny.

Granit Xhaka (CM) – Swiss International GXhaka should keep his place and partner Ceballos. Xhaka is enjoying some of his best form in an Arsenal shirt to date and it’ll be interesting to see whether he can maintain his recent strong performance levels without Partey next to him. Covering Saka at left-back will be a key instruction for Xhaka on Sunday if indeed the teenager does start as a full-back.

Martin Ødegaard (CAM) – As for the attacking midfield role ahead of Xhaka and Ceballos, Martin Ødegaard looks set to be deployed there from the start for the first time. Smith Rowe hasn’t been especially poor lately, but it’s easy to forget how young he is, so looking after his fitness is important.

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