Arsenal predicted lineup vs Crystal Palace: Smith Rowe in for Martinelli?

Arsenal make the short journey across the capital to Selhurst Park on Monday as they take on Crystal Palace in the Premier League. Here is the predicted lineup.

The wait is almost over and the joy of seeing our beloved team in action is back. But what team might that be?

Mikel Arteta saw three of his international stars stay home over the break when they otherwise would have been involved with their countries, as Aaron Ramsdale, Takehiro Tomiyasu and Bukayo Saka all took no part over the halt in club action.

Saka has returned to training after recovering from Covid and barring any late hiccups should be involved, although it’s much less cut and dry for the other two.

Arsenal predicted lineup vs Crystal Palace: Emile Smith Rowe in for Gabriel Martinelli and will Tomiyasu be fit for Premier League clash?

In goal it’s a race against time for Ramsdale whose hip problem hasn’t seen him return to full training yet, and the concern is that rushing him back could prompt an aggravation of the issue – one which would be far from ideal for the final run-in.

The situation is similar for Tomiyasu, even if the right-back has been training with the group as he bids to make his first appearance since January. He stands a good chance of being involved in some capacity.

Patrick Vieira will be hoping to have his forward line at full strength with concerns over Michael Olise and Wilfried Zaha, two players he refused to rule out of action. Was he keeping his cards close to his chest and being cryptic, though? Perhaps a la Arteta? Who knows.

System-wise we can expect the usual, a shape that will match up to Palace’s own 4-3-3.

Goalkeeper & Defenders

Bernd Leno (GK) – There is just no reason to rush Ramsdale, is there? Of course, it would be nice if he were back as his distribution would be welcome against the Eagles’ high press, but Leno will be trusted.

Cedric Soares (RB) – Same situation here. While Tomiyasu could well make the squad, taking unnecessary risks now is unwise.

Benjamin White (CB) – Injury to John Stones meant White played more minutes than originally planned for England, which is why it was nice of Southgate to take him off at half-time against Ivory Coast.

Gabriel (CB) – There will be no physical fatigue for Gabriel as he didn’t play for Brazil over the break, but there may be some tiredness going on as he welcomed the birth of his baby. Probably hasn’t slept at all.

Kieran Tierney (LB) – Break? What break? Tierney played the full 90 minutes of both Scotland’s friendlies, grabbing himself a first international goal and an assist. He’s a machine though, and there was plenty of time to recover, so he’ll play.

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