Mikel Arteta has made two changes to Arsenal’s lineup for their Saturday early kick-off against Leicester City, recalling Ethan Nwaneri and Raheem Sterling.
The adjustments come after a week-long break following the Carabao Cup semi-final loss to Newcastle. Gabriel Martinelli, who suffered a hamstring injury in that match, is sidelined. Kai Havertz also misses out after sustaining a similar issue during Arsenal’s training camp in Dubai.
A boost for the Gunners comes in the form of Ben White, who returns to the squad for the first time since November. Having recovered from a knee injury that kept him out for 21 matches, he takes a spot on the bench.
Leicester City, looking to bounce back from a 2-1 FA Cup defeat to Manchester United, have also made two changes. Jamie Vardy is back from injury to lead the attack, while Victor Kristiansen is fit to start. James Justin, who scored twice in the reverse fixture, retains his place in the lineup.
Former Arsenal youth player Stephy Mavididi is named among Leicester’s substitutes, adding an extra layer of intrigue to the clash.
Starting Lineups
Arsenal XI: Raya, Timber, Saliba, Gabriel, Lewis-Skelly, Partey, Rice, Odegaard, Nwaneri, Sterling, Trossard.
Subs: Neto, Calafiori, Zinchenko, Tierney, Kiwior, White, Jorginho, Merino, Butler-Oyedeji.
Leicester XI: Hermansen, Justin, Faes, Okoli, Kristiansen, Ndidi, El Khannouss, De Cordova-Reid, Ayew, Soumare, Vardy.
Subs: Stolarczyk, Coady, Coulibaly, Winks, Mavididi, Skipp, Buonanotte, Daka, Vestergaard.
Both teams will be aiming for a crucial win in this highly anticipated fixture.