Brighton vs Arsenal: 3 key battles in Premier League showdown
By Kenneth Daly
3. Leandro Trossard vs William Saliba
A fascinating match-up between two standout performers.
Further injury problems for Danny Welbeck suggest Leandro Trossard will start up front again on Saturday and he poses a huge threat to the Arsenal backline. The Belgian forward is very direct and works hard at both ends of the pitch which helps him to link the play as well as drag defenders out of position.
Meanwhile, a tendency to operate on the shoulder could challenge our high defensive line and see Trossard at least equal his season-best tally of eight goals from last year.
Despite the danger presented, Arsenal certainly have a worthy competitor to nullify it in the form of William Saliba. The 21-year-old is more than capable of withstanding Brighton pressure thanks to his technical composure and can match Trossard for pace if necessary. He also far exceeds him in terms of both physical strength and height, which should result in plenty of duel success.
Saliba is only one caution away from a suspension himself so will need to be careful, especially when considering the tough games on the horizon.