Arsenal predicted lineup vs Sheffield United: Martinelli to start?

Forwards

Nicolas Pepe (RW) – Came on and completely changed the complexion of the game with Slavia Prague as he willingly ran beyond and never stood still so as to pull the opposition out of position. His goal was high quality too, as he showed pace and precision to dink the ball over Kolar.

With Saka in need of a rest he could play in the Englishman’s stead.

Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang (ST)*- Is this an ideal fixture for Pierre-Emerick Aubamayeng? Sometimes there is overthinking in matches where given how deep the Blades’ block will be it won’t provide the captain with the space he needs to attack. That is, after all, his skill set.

However, good players beat bad players. Simple as that. This is a woefully leaky defence coming up against a striker of top quality. Arteta will have a fresh Aubameyang to choose from and he’ll do so.

*Update: Aubameyang has since been ruled out with ‘the flu’. Yes, really.

Gabriel Martinelli (LW) – Willian offered nothing on top of the nothingness he’s already offered against Slavia Prague since he took the Piccadilly Line up to Islington, and Arteta’s reluctance to field Gabriel Martinelli must come to an end at some point.

Where better than away at the bottom side in the division to reintegrate him into the starting lineup? Furthermore, Willian will probably get the nod on Thursday so the decision seems likely. Martinelli will be who supporters have their eyes on.