Arsenal did not play during midweek but they do have a tricky tie against Monaco in the Champions League next week. Thhe Gunners were impressive in their last game as they dispatched Middlesbrough in the FA Cup with a brace from Olivier Giroud.
Arsenal now take on Crystal Palace, which will be a great game for the neutrals as Alan Pardew has rejuvenated his team again, and although they are not safe they are heading in the right direction. Arsenal will have one eye on their Champions League tie but they cannot afford to slip up or they could lose steam in the race for a top 4 finish.
With such an important game coming up in midweek, we try to predict the Arsenal Starting XI.
Wojciech Szczesny
The Polish goalkeeper seems to have gotten on the right side of Arsene and should continue his place in goal after a decent performance against Middlesbrough in the FA Cup.
Nacho Monreal
Monreal was rested in the FA Cup tie with Gibbs playing as left back but he should make his return to the squad as they take on a tough Palace team.
Per Mertesacker
Mertesacker was given a rest as new signing Paulista played for Arsenal, but the big German should make his return to the squad in this crucial game.
Laurent Koscielny
Laurent Koscielny should continue his role in the Arsenal defence as they look to keep another clean sheet against Palace.
Hector Bellerin
Bellerin has slowly become one of the most consistent players for Arsenal and he would continue playing as part of the defence for this game as well, thanks to Debuchy’s long term injury.
Francis Coquelin
Flamini started the game against Middlesbrough but Coquelin should get the nod to play for the Gunners in this important game since he has the legs which should last him the entire game.
Santi Cazorla
Although there have been rumours of Cazorla moving away at the end of the season, there is no doubt his stock has risen after a few incredible performances for Arsenal in recent weeks and that should continue as he should start this time around as well.
Alexis Sanchez
A star player for Arsenal and someone who cannot be dropped no matter what. Sanchez provides some extra flair and attacking power and should continue to be part of the team, unless he gets injured.
Mesut Ozil
If there was any doubt that Mesut Ozil cannot play with Alexis Sanchez in the same team that was completely washed away in the last game. Ozil was electric as he toyed with the Borough defence and should start for Arsenal.
Theo Walcott
Walcott should start in place of Danny Welbeck as his pace would cause all sorts of problems to Palace.
Olivier Giroud
The star striker for Arsenal, Giroud has been on fire in recent weeks and his exceptional performance against Middlesbrough should not be forgotten. The Frenchman looks good to start for the Gunners.