Strongest Arsenal XI to Face Stoke CIty: Walcott Out, Giroud In Again

Arsenal host Stoke City at the Emirates on Saturday. This fixture has been under the media’s attention for a few years now since Aaron Ramsey’s horrific injury at the Britannia back in 2009. Even though Arsenal, like all teams, face an uphill task at the Britannia, they usually come out winning the home games against Stoke City.

Petr Cech

Cech has been subject to some truly outstanding performances in recent weeks. His quality has been evident thus far and it looks like he will be playing an extremely decisive part for Arsenal this season. He’s expected to resume his duties in goal.

Hector Bellerin

After enjoying a good short spell of games prior to the international break, Bellerin will be looking to build on his efforts as Mathieu Debuchy waits for his chance. The young Spaniard will provide pace on the flank.

Laurent Koscielny

Koscielny has been one of the top performers thus far. His inclusion is almost inevitable as he’s the main standout defender in the mix. Against Newcastle, we saw him partner Gabriel and both had good games which is very encouraging in the long term.

Gabriel

The Brazilian will again have the opportunity to showcase his defensive prowess, but this time against one of the most physical oppositions in the Premier League. He’s expected to start.

Nacho Monreal

Although there were unconfirmed reports about Monreal joining Athletic Bilbao on the deadline day, there was a sense of certainty that Arsenal will easily hold on the one their best defenders. Monreal has been excellent in recent months and his exclusion would surely affect the stability at the back.

Francis Coquelin

Coquelin had a really good game against Newcastle. He was subject to some dangeroud challenges but fortunately came out not getting injured. He’s the main ball winner in the middle of the park and is expected to start against Stoke.

Santi Cazorla

The Spaniard has been one of the first names on the team-sheet and there’s no reason why he won’t be this time around. His vast array of passing and distribution skills are crucial to Arsenal’s play.

Oxlade-Chamberlain

Chamberlain started at St. James’ Park and directly played a part in the goal as his shot was deflected into the goal. His early season form has been impressive and much needed for Arsenal.

Mesut Ozil

Ozil has started the season very well and featured in the recent international friendlies even though he didn’t feature for Arsenal against Newcastle United. The German is expected to start and make decisive contributions in the final third of the pitch, as he usually does.

Alexis Sanchez

Still yet to hit top gear, Alexis is a huge asset to Arsenal and is always a goal threat. He’s been a major boost since his display at Selhurst Park.

Olivier Giroud

With Danny Welbeck Out injured, Giroud is expected to start upfront. Theo Walcott is another option, but he’s likely to be ineffective considering the physicality of the opposition.