Projected starting XI v West Ham United and other stuff

Saturday is the next step on the ladder back into European competition for next season. The Gunners need to take every game one at a time, gather as many point as possible, and hope the teams ahead of them falter along the way. Yes, a lot of things need to happen for Arsenal to finish top 4 or top 5, however, the team controls only one thing, and that’s winning their own games.

Mikel Arteta has proven to be the man to turn things around and make a run up the table. A few months ago, Arsenal was written off, and even given a chance to be staggering in the relegation zone by the end of the season. Now, here we are, with a shot for redemption.

With that said, here’s my projected starting XI against the Hammers tomorrow at the Emirates…

Leno
Saka, Mustafi, Luiz, Bellerin
Xhaka, Ceballos, Ozil
Aubameyang, Lacazette, Pepe

Will Eddie Nketiah be a surprise starter in place of Lacazette? We’ll see tomorrow.

Projected final score: Arsenal 2 – West Ham United 1

Here’s the other stuff…

The Premier League and the EFL have banned pre-match handshakes until further notice this season due to the coronavirus threats in Europe. The walk-outs and team greetings will still take place, but without shaking hands. The leagues are in daily contact with the British government’s public health care officials to provide the latest advise on how to help slow the progress of the virus. As of this writing, no English matches have been postponed or cancelled due to the this health threat.

And then some good news…

Mikel Artetas has been nominated for the Premier League’s manager of the month for February, while Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang has been nominated for the Premier League’s player of the month for February.
Congrats to both!

Cheers. Gunner1953