3 changes to make for midweek Everton fixture

2. Midfield shake-up

Thomas Partey made his return at the end of the Leicester game, helping shore up the midfield as Leicester mounted attacking pressure. Although the defensive midfielder should come straight into the starting lineup if fit, he cannot replace Jorginho.

The latter has been exceptional in Partey’s absence. He has defended well enough while adding experience and leadership in addition to quality on the ball. His vision is incredible, spotting and finding runs with ease. His lack of athleticism, however, could be exposed on Wednesday. Thus one of the changes Arteta should make is restoring Partey to the #6 position while deploying Jorginho in Xhaka’s place.

Xhaka has looked lost when attacking the box. He lacks the clinical edge and athleticism to get in the box himself and he is not a creative enough passer to slide in other attackers. Jorginho at least offers the latter. His through balls to Martinelli might just be what Arsenal need on Wednesday.

A midfield of Jorginho, Partey and Odegaard is an exciting prospect indeed.

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