Arsenal vs Leeds EFL Cup preview: How to watch, lineups, team news & prediction
Arsenal Team News vs Leeds United – Tierney Misses Out?
After two tough fixtures during the week there is sure to be a few tired legs out there for Arsenal who will be viewing this fixture as a chance for rotation.
But not too much. After all, a win here books a place in the quarter-finals. It’s a trophy and, realistically, aside from Manchester City obviously walking it, perhaps the best chance this team has of silverware this term.
Some of the changes and selections may be forced, though. It’s still unclear how long Kieran Tierney will be out for with a bruised ankle but Arteta’s words after the Villa win hint strongly that Tuesday will come too soon for him. Eyes will be on a return for Leicester.
Both Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and Alexandre Lacazette worryingly hobbled off on Friday, only for the manager to allay fears and confirm the pair merely suffered from cramp.
With Granit Xhaka and Tierney confirmed to be out, the selections Arteta makes will be interesting to see as he searches for the balance between experience and freshness.
Bielsa isn’t quite as fortunate. His threadbare squad is still without Luke Ayling, Junior Firpo, Robin Koch and Patrick Bamford, while Kalvin Phillips was only fit enough for a spot on the bench against Wolves having missed three weeks out with an injury.
Raphinha suffered an ankle issue in that 1-1 draw but he looks to be fit to feature on Tuesday, although it’s possible he won’t be risked with the Premier League undoubtedly the primary concern this term.
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