Arsenal’s predicted line-up to face in-form Wolves - two changes with key Smith Rowe decision

Mikel Arteta has big calls to make to get all three points against visiting Wolves tonight.

Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta has a fully fit squad to choose from ahead of tonight’s crucial game against Wolverhampton Wanderers.

Emile Smith Rowe, so bright against Brentford, is likely to keep his place in the starting line-up, after his goal against the Bees proved so vital.

Then there is the returning Gabriel Martinelli who missed the game against Brentford due to suspension, and his return will give Arteta another position to mull over before the game.

Emile Smith Rowe of Arsenal celebrates scoring during the Premier League match  (Photo by Visionhaus/Getty Images)placeholder image
Emile Smith Rowe of Arsenal celebrates scoring during the Premier League match (Photo by Visionhaus/Getty Images) | Visionhaus/Getty Images

Since Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang left the club, Alexandre Lacazette has been acting captain and has started the last few games, but a decision on who to start upfront is not that straightforward.

Martinelli could play up top, and earlier this week Arteta said that even Smith Rowe could play as a striker, saying: “He can play as a nine — very, very well I think.”

There is also the returning right back Takehiro Tomiyasu, who is now available after being out for almost three weeks.

In his absence Cédric Soares has been performing well, and it will be interesting to see if Arteta decides to stick or twist in the face of growing options.

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Arsenal FC via Getty Images

The game against Wolves begins a very crucial period for the Gunners, who are desperate for a top four finish this season.

Games against Watford, Leicester and Liverpool will come swiftly after Wolves, and Arteta knows that there is little room for errors.

The Gunners boss will want to put his best team out there to give his side the best option of winning the game.

A win tonight will take Arsenal just a point behind Manchester United in fourth place with games in hand. Wolves are a side in form and pose a greater test at the Emirates.

Head to head

Arsenal wins: 59

Draws: 28

Wolves wins: 32

Predicted starting XI 

Ramsdale; Cédric Soares , White, Gabriel, Tierney; Partey, Xhaka; Saka, Odegaard, Smith Rowe; Lacazette.

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