Defence:
In the most likely of situations, Kieran Gibbs will miss the clash given his sustained injury against Bayern Munich, but Nacho Monreal is due to start after an injury of his own, at the Britannia. Bacary Sagna, who had a terrific game against Sunderland should man the right back slot for the Gunners. Wenger is also sure to start with Laurent Koscielny and Per Mertesacker, Arsenal’s stand in centre back partnership to combat Stoke in the heart of the defence. The French-German pair will be instrumental if the travelling side are to record yet another three points, and need to be at the best of their ability to keep the home side at bay.
Midfield:
Mathieu Flamini will most likely play alongside Mikel Arteta in the middle of the park after Wilshere suffered a knock against Sunderland. Mesut Ozil is expected to recuperate from the dead leg he sustained and should make it to the starting eleven. Thomas Rosicky, who started the game ahead of Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain is likely to keep his place after his wonderful performance against the Black Cats last week which was capped by a sublime Arsenalesque goal.
Cazorla will most probably start from the left pushing Podolski back to the bench after his rare start last week. The German despite showing flashes of his brilliance had an average game and should be used as a sub if the Gunners are in need of a quick fire goal in the second half.
Strike force:
Olivier Giroud scored a brace against Sunderland and will be raring to get back on the pitch come this Saturday.
