Arsenal team news: Predicted XI vs Chelsea as Odegaard and Rice decisions made

Arsenal travel to Stamford Bridge on Sunday looking to stop the rot against Chelsea, having tasted back-to-back defeats against Newcastle United and Inter Milan. Mikel Arteta’s side have won just two of their last six games and desperately need three points in the London derby to stay in touch with their Premier League title rivals.

Leaders Liverpool enter the weekend seven points ahead of the Gunners, and a handful of injury concerns have worsened the mounting pressure on Arteta.

Express Sport has a go at weighing up how the Spaniard will line up his team in the highly anticipated showdown against Chelsea.

Arsenal predicted XI vs Chelsea (4-3-3)

Goalkeeper – Raya

David Raya was beaten from the penalty spot at the San Siro on Wednesday but had very little to do. That should be a different story at Stamford Bridge.

Defence – White, Saliba, Gabriel, Timber

Arsenal will likely remain unchanged in defence, with Kieran Tierney (hamstring), Riccardo Calafiori, and Takehiro Tomiyasu (both knee) still ruled out.

Ben White returned to the team against Inter and should keep his spot, with Jurrien Timber set to remain in the unnatural left-back position.

The Dutchman has a real test on his hands against the tricky Noni Madueke, who has been one of the most dangerous threats in Enzo Maresca’s attacking arsenal this term.

William Saliba and Gabriel Magalhaes’ usually resolute partnership will prove crucial if Arsenal are to clinch a result in west London.

Midfield – Partey, Rice, Odegaard

Declan Rice is a doubt after missing the midweek trip to Milan with a broken toe. The Gunners midfielder hasn’t trained this week and faces a late fitness test ahead of Sunday.

But Rice is reportedly ready to play through the pain barrier to make himself available for Arteta, and he was sorely missed last time out.

For all of Arsenal’s shortcomings this term, Thomas Partey has rediscovered some of his best form and should be called upon again.

The standout headline, though, could be the return of captain Martin Odegaard. He featured off the bench against Inter, and Arteta has claimed that anyone in the squad at Chelsea will be able to start.

Attack – Saka, Martinelli, Jesus

Kai Havertz suffered a blow to the head in the Inter defeat and required stitches after being left bloodied.

He’s doubtful for the trip to his former club, which could result in a rare opportunity for Gabriel Jesus to start.

Bukayo Saka is a sure starter on the right wing, while Gabriel Martinelli should get the nod over Leandro Trossard on the opposite flank.

Arteta needs more from his entire front three, having watched Arsenal fail to score in two games straight.