Arsenal star set for memorable Premier League bow

Arsenal prepare to take on Crystal Palace in the Premier League on Monday knowing full well what needs to be done. With Tottenham beating Newcastle there is no margin for error.

Mikel Arteta’s side have dropped out of the top four on goal difference, with Spurs’ heavy victory seeing them move ahead level on points with two more matches played. Arsenal know they only have to match their rivals results to secure Champions League football.

Patrick Vieira’s side will pose numerous problems for Arsenal, with the Eagles in decent form heading into the clash, and they will be seeking revenge for the last-gasp equaliser in the reverse meeting that denied them a fine away victory.

The team Arteta will put out to try and win the match is mostly set in stone. Only one or two positions could be up for grabs, with injuries the other factor to consider that may prompt changes.

Arsenal star Marcelo Flores set for memorable Premier League bow against Crystal Palace with his first call up to senior matchday squad

Question marks remain over Aaron Ramsdale and Takehiro Tomiyasu’s availability, although it’s another injury that looks set to open the door for a memorable Premier League bow with Omari Hutchinson rumoured to be out injured.

Marcelo Flores, who has been in excellent form for club and country, is set to be included in his first ever Premier League matchday squad. The news was confirmed by his father Ruben, on Twitter, and since picked up by UK outlets.

"“So proud and excited with the first call up of Marcelo Flores with the first team [of] Arsenal,” he tweeted.“Good luck son, you’ve been preparing all your life for moments like this.”"

The 18-year-old was born in Canada but represents Mexico, making his senior debut for the national team last year.

Signed from Ipswich in 2019, in his 20 apps across the U18s PL, the PL2 & the EFL trophy this season Flores has scored ten goals and provided three assists. His inclusion won’t be the first time Arteta has called up youngsters to his first team squad this season, with Zak Swanson and Hutchinson both on the bench in the most recent win over Aston Villa.

It’s highly unlikely that Flores will get any minutes at Selhurst Park, with the trimmed down squad leaving plenty of room for youth call-ups but still having its trusted core of starters, although simply being involved will be a special moment for him.

Flores’ current deal expires in 2023 but the club have the option of a further two years on top of that.