Arsenal: 3 things we’d like to see vs Brentford

3. Watch the Granit Xhaka and Sambi Lokonga Partnership Perform

With Thomas Partey set to be out until after the international break, the midfield pivot of Granit Xhaka and Albert Lokonga will be Arteta’s go-to choice for the first set of Premier League matches. Well, it should be.

Xhaka has vast experience in the division while, for Lokonga, this will be his first real test of what to expect in England. Having impressed so far in the pre-season, when the real stuff starts, it is completely different. Even if Chelsea and Tottenham pose a different kettle of fish.

Xhaka is the calm distributor and can fill in between centre-back and full-back when Kieran Tierney marauds forward; whereas for Lokonga, he will be used similarly to Partey. Be the force in the middle of the park, progress the ball forward (much like his gorgeous pass for Nicolas Pepe against Chelsea) and break up any dangerous attacks from a Brentford side who will be chomping at the bit to get forward.

That is the normal remit but it will interesting to see whether Arteta does likewise as against Tottenham where Sambi played the deep-lying role and Xhaka was given greater license to venture forward. On paper it should be in reverse, thus it’s an intriguing tactical ploy.

While it’s only one game, you get the sense that this is a big clash for Arteta and Arsenal. With Chelsea and Manchester City to come up next, three points become increasingly vital. A quiet transfer window so far and poor performances do not lend much confidence in the Gunners getting a positive result.

However, should things click, Arsenal have more than enough quality to roll into Brentford Community Stadium and walk out with the three points. They have to.