Arsenal vs Southampton prediction: Arsenal line-up

Sixth-placed Arsenal host relegation-threatened Southampton at the Emirates on Saturday.

Nothing less than a win would be the top priority for Gunners manager Unai Emery and Saints boss Ralph Hasenhuttl when Premier League’s two under-performing sides lock horns this weekend.

Arsenal striker Pierre Emerick Aubameyang in action. (Getty Images)

Arsenal, who have failed to win any of their last four league outings would be desperate to get back to winning ways to keep their hopes of a Champions League spot alive.

Meanwhile, Southampton, who have lost four of their last five outings, are at an all-time low as they sit second bottom in the table.

After conceding 17 goals from 12 games, Arsenal’s defensive woes still remain a concern for Emery. The Gunners enter the match after suffering a 2-0 loss to Leicester in their last league game.

However, the Spaniard’s side has not lost a single game at home and could take this as a confidence-booster ahead of their meeting with the Saints.

Team news

Granit Xhaka will not face Southampton after his outburst during the Crystal Palace game. Dani Ceballos, on the other hand, is nursing a thigh injury.

Predicted XI

Formation: 4-2-1-3

Bernd Leno (GK)

The German is still the undisputed No. 1 at Arsenal. However, it has not been the best of starts for Leno, who has two clean sheets from 12 matches.

Arsenal goalkeeper Bernd Leno. (Getty Images)

Hector Bellerin (RB)

The pacey full-back is once again back in the fray after his injury lay off and could get the nod ahead of Calum Chambers.

David Luiz (CB)

The experienced centre-back would once again be Emery’s first choice when they play at home. The Brazilian’s aerial abilities during set-piece routines might come in handy for the Gunners.

Sokratis Papastathopoulos (CB)

Having started 11 of their 12 matches, the Greek veteran would be a sure choice against the lowly Saints.

Kieran Tierney (LB)

The young Tierney could offer Arsenal some pace down the flanks. Also, he has shown good potential since returning from injury.

Sokratis Papastathopoulos. (Getty Images)

Lucas Torreira (CM)

The Uruguayan who operates from the base is a calm presence under pressure situations. He can fill the void left by outcast Xhaka.

Matteo Guendouzi (CM)

The youngster has impressed Emery with his consistent work rate. The only Gunner to start in all their league encounters, the Frenchman is a sure pick.

Nicolas Pepe (RW)

Yet to prove his credentials after his summer move from Lille. However, Emery does not have many options on the right and should give him another chance to prove his potential.

Mesut Ozil (CAM)

The 31-year old playmaker looks like a shadow of his past and has come back into the team recently. He has just played three games but with Ceballos still recovering, he looks most likely to start.

Matteo Guendouzi in action for Arsenal. (Getty Images)

Pierre Emerick Aubameyang (LW)

Arsenal’s main goal threat this season, last year’s Golden Boot winner is sure to feature.

Alexandre Lacazette (ST)

Played in the last match against Leicester and should once again start against Southampton. However, the Frenchman has been troubled by injuries and is yet to hit form.