Midfield
Flamini, Ramsey, Cazorla, Sanchez, OX.
Mathieu Flamini and Aaron Ramsey are among the few midfield options available after Jack Wilshere became the latest midfielder to walk into the treatment room. Wenger started the duo against Southampton at home and the trip to Stoke could be another test of Ransey’s ability to express himself in a midfield two. Alexis Sanchez may line up behind the front man and should have much more space to exploit as compared to his wider role. The Chilean scored a late winner and should be high on confidence while Danny Welbeck although brilliant at times, wasn’t good enough against the Saints and has every chance to be benched for this one.
Santi Cazorla has flattered to deceive in recent games, but the lack of creative force in the midfield would force Wenger to continue with the Spaniard. Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain’s substitution in the second half against Southampton raised a few eye brows as he was brilliant throughout the game, his pace and running ability may well be the key to unlock Stoke.
Striker:
Olivier Giroud
Giroud scored a cracker against Manchester United on his return and his return should allow Arsenal to have some presence in the penalty area after the attacking looked one dimensional against the Saints. Giroud started on the bench on Wednesday but should be raring to start after a barrage of late Arsenal pressure saw Giroud heavily involved in the latter stages against Southampton.
