Arsenal simply have to come through their first leg last-16 Champions League clash with PSV Eindhoven if they want to keep any hope of silverware alive this season. With the Premier League title race effectively over, this will be Mikel Arteta’s final hope.
While being very familiar with their opponents, having now played them three seasons in a row, both teams are not in the best form. Arsenal have failed to score in their last two matches, whereas their Dutch opponents have been beaten by Go Ahead Eagles in back-to-back matches both home and away.
Arteta needs to get his selection right for this match, with little in the way of attacking options. He has preferred certain selections of late but will that change for this European test.
David Raya
One player who certainly will not be losing his place is David Raya. The Arsenal number one goalkeeper has been a consistent force in the side and will be vital to helping keep out Luuk de Jong and company.
Jurrien Timber
Another mainstay in the side but who arguably is not so guaranteed after the return of Ben White from injury. The England international will be pushing to regain his right-back spot but the Dutchman will likely start again as White gradually works his way back into the side.
William Saliba
The consistency of the Arsenal defence has been the predominant force for Mikel Arteta this season. While there have been some shaky moments for William Saliba, he produced a world-class tackle on Chris Wood to save a clean sheet and those abilities could be called into action as he faces up against Noa Lang.
Gabriel Magalhaes
With the Arsenal forwards struggling to score, a set-piece could be all it takes to send the Gunners further in the competition. One player who will therefore be primed to try and score from one will be the imperious Gabriel Magalhaes.
Myles Lewis-Skelly
Suspended from the match with Nottingham Forest in midweek following his red card against West Ham. The youngster is able to return to the side again and offer Arteta a different option to Riccardo Calafiori who has had mixed performances in the last two clashes.
