Arsenal squandered yet another opportunity to top the table in the wake of their 4-0 drubbing at St. Mary’s, but can be expected to wallop the newly-promoted Bournemouth to regain the impetus. However, a few changes from the side that faced Southampton should be made, with Per Mertesacker being the prime casualty.
Petr Cech – The former Chelsea humdinger did not have the best of the nights on Boxing Day, but will retain his starting berth at Emirates Stadium. Eyes will be on the 33-year-old ‘keeper as he is expected to claim the Premier League record for the most number of clean sheets.
Hector Bellerin – The Spaniard has not been so effective as his former self in the recent weeks, but his closest rival Mathieu Debuchy has, needless to say, lost the faith of his manager. With Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain set to start, the right flank should intimidate the opponents.
Laurent Koscielny – Per Mertesacker and his French partner both had a night to forget against Ronald Koeman’s men and on Monday night, the World Cup winner will likely be on the sidelines, with Laurent Koscielny captaining the side in his absence.
Gabriel Paulista – The 26-year-old centre-back has seldom failed to impress on the pitch, but has found his time limited, with his colleagues being undroppable. However, Gabriel Paulista is certain to feature against the Cherries and should be comfortable while facing Glenn Murray and his allies.
Kieran Gibbs – With Nacho Monreal impressing more than he should be, the Englishman is slowly becoming a clutter in the Arsenal picture. If he dreams of making an impact, he has got his stage to perform. Fans would want to see the Kieran Gibbs that ensured Champions League football with a sublime tackle on Billy Jones.
Mathieu Flamini – The soon-to-be billionaire has been winning fans over in the absence of Francis Coquelin but was outclassed by the Saints’ midfield. Mathieu Flamini should be in the lineup to face Bournemouth, but Calum Chambers also has an equal chance of making the starting eleven.
Aaron Ramsey – The Welshman was unimpressive against the Saints and would appreciate rest, but the Gunners are helpless as they do not have an able replacement at their disposal at the moment.
Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain – Theo Walcott has been involved in only a handful of games since returning from a calf injury and a second game in less than 48 hours should be too much for him and hence, the inclusion of Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain. The 22-year-old has been far from impressive this season and today is his chance to make up for it.
Mesut Ozil – The German playmaker would be rested, if the likes of Jack Wilshere were not injured, but he needs to start in order for Arsenal to have a crack at the goal. Absence of Alexis Sanchez, as well as Mesut Ozil will give any opponent a huge mental boost and that is the last thing Arsenal should be offering.
Joel Campbell – The Costa Rica international has been neither horrible nor incredible, but his work-rate and commitment will keep him in the squad, at least until the return of Alexis Sanchez. Retaining his services has turned out to be a good decision after all.
Olivier Giroud – The gigantic striker has been a go-to for goals this season even though Piers Morgan has other ideas. Olivier Giroud will spearhead the lineup, with Theo Walcott waiting to be called upon if the game demands pace.
Arsenal should win hands down unless Eddie Howe, akin to Ronald Koeman, instructs his players to deploy Shawn Michaels’ finisher to down the FA Cup holders.
