Arsenal predicted lineup vs Crystal Palace: Xhaka & Partey return?

Forwards

Bukayo Saka (RW) – Bukayo Saka has to be on that England plane. Based off of recent squad announcements and reports, he doesn’t seem like missing out but no certainties can be taken. In truth, he shouldn’t be playing at all. There is no need.

However, with the European Championships on the horizon, and with the best chance of any in this squad by far of playing for England, he’ll get minutes.

Saka is also Arteta’s best player and the chances of winning are higher with him in the team. That also plays a part, I suppose.

Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang (ST) – It would make sense for Alexandre Lacazette to play in this fixture whether it tactically suits or not. Let the Frenchman have a run around and keep him in the shop window for this summer. Would not playing him make any real difference? Probably not, but playing gives him the chance of scoring, which certainly wouldn’t hurt.

Doesn’t seem like he’s going, though, which means that Aubameyang, who must start as the first choice No. 9 next season and none of this worn out left-winger nonsense, will start up front.

Nicolas Pepe (LW) – Not on the pitch at all against Chelsea after being given the chance to rest his legs, the likely outcome is Pepe getting the nod in south London. The same can be said of Gabriel Martinelli, yet of the two it’s clear who Arteta is favouring at the moment.