After turning to a youthful side for the Carabao Cup third round tie at home to League One outfit Bolton Wanderers last month, Mikel Arteta may well find himself in a similar situation on Wednesday. This time travelling away, Arsenal face Championship opposition in Preston North End.
As Arteta looks to win just his second piece of major silverware at the club, the League Cup takes on added importance. Arsenal’s hopes of progressing are being put to the test, though, even with talented academy players to turn to.
Stars such as Martin Odegaard and Gabriel Magalhaes are highly likely to have been rested anyway for the game but Arteta may well find the decision taken out of his hands. Along with Riccardo Calafiori and Jurrien Timber, there are a number of serious doubts for the game.
Gabriel went down after a challenge from Darwin Nunez against Liverpool. The back of his left knee was hit and despite trying to play on, Arteta had to sub him off shortly after. The Brazilian was spotted with a large ice pack over his knee when sat on the bench.
