Let me try...Arse tend to deploy a 4-3-3. Their ideal set-up sees White/Saliba/Gabriel/Zinchenko supported by a deeper sitting Partey. Xhaka and Odegaard are the given those channels to roam and probe, with Martinelli, Jesus and Saka up top. It is clear, both from the talent and versatility of Jesus and Saka, that their forward line is very very strong if allowed to see the ball early. If, as expected, we play 3-4-3, we will be outnumbered in midfield, however as long as we allow that numerical advantage to Xhaka, and lock up Odegaard and Partey, that won't concern me. IF our forwards are doing the hard work and don't give their CBs time to find Partey easily, then it is an area we could exploit especially with Partey most likely only 85% fit if he plays at all. Xhaka on the ball is a liability. I think we will see a very roostery Arsenal look to take the game right to us and turn us over from the start (something similar to what Marseille did except obviously the quality differential will be much greater)...
...one thing the Marseille game showed (which was highly frustrating) is that we actually had a good 4 or 5 chances for quick, fast turnovers, but were let down by a lack of sharpness in technical execution. It was very frustrating. We cannot afford a similar lack of technical execution on Saturday, but if we are on it and sharp, believe me, Arsenal will leave plenty of fast turnover opportunities. Tomiyasu is OK as a RB but beatable, and let's face it, if the gift that is Holding plays, he will be petrified. I would absolutely start Sessegnon and Royal, both are strong and aggressive. Antonio's biggest selection headache is uptop. We are a better side with Deccy, no doubt, and Richy is a better player on the left. Sonny has to start, that is clear, as does Kane. The big decision is who comes off the bench, Deccy or Richy. Common sense says play Deccy, my gut feeling is that Richarlison is such a pest and such a menace that will simply not allow Arsenal to hit any pattern of play from the back early doors and will be a great disruptor.
