Unai Emery is expected to recall Mesut Ozil for Arsenal’s derby clash with Tottenham at the Emirates today.
The German playmaker dropped to the bench last weekend against Bournemouth and was left out of the squad that faced Vorskla Poltava in Kiev on Thursday.
Emery stated that the expected intense nature of the clash with the Cherries’ was the reason for Ozil’s omission – throwing up doubts over his involvement against Spurs.
However, when asked on Friday whether the 30-year-old will start, Emery said: “I don’t know because tomorrow is the last training, but every player is very important with their qualities.
“We need to continue preparing and continue improving in our work and as a team with bigger performances and individual quality.
“I will prepare for the match with every player.”
Emery’s evasive answer could be interpreted as a hint that he will go back on his reasoning and pick Ozil for the undoubtedly fierce match-up against Tottenham.
Ozil’s deployment in a No 10 role would see Aaron Ramsey drop out of the starting XI, having featured prominently in the 3-0 win over Vorskla.
Alternatively, Ozil could line up on the right in place of Alex Iwobi while Ramsey remains central and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang takes up his usual station on the left wing.
The Gunners are also expected to revert to a back four, having fielded three centre-backs against Bournemouth.
Nacho Monreal remains sidelined so Sead Kolasinac should start at left-back while Hector Bellerin is fit to line up on the opposite flank.
Meanwhile, Rob Holding played over an hour on Thursday so Sokratis Papastathopoulos and Shkodran Mustafi are the most likely centre-back partnership.
