Arsenal will welcome Bodo/Glimt at the Emirates Stadium on Thursday evening looking for a second victory in the Europa League from as many games this season.
The North Londoners opened their European campaign with a 2-1 win over FC Zurich last month before their home game against PSV Eindhoven was postponed following the passing of Queen Elizabeth II.
Mikel Arteta’s side continued their sensational form this season in the Premier League on Saturday, beating north London rivals Tottenham 3-1 at home. They are a team with good momentum and will head into this European tie as overwhelming favourites.
Arsenal Team News
Arsenal have received a big injury boost ahead of the clash with Bodo/Glimt, as defender Cedric Soares has recovered fully from the knock that ruled him out of the North London derby.
Meanwhile, Mohamed Elneny and Emile Smith Rowe are long-term injury casualties for the Gunners. Other than Elneny and Smith Rowe, Mikel Arteta has a fully fit squad at his disposal.
Predicted Arsenal Lineup vs Bodo/Glimt (4-2-3-1)
Goalkeeper
Matt Turner is Arsenal’s cup goalkeeper and, having started the first game in the Europa League he is expected to be between the sticks when Bodo/Glimt visit the Emirates Stadium.
Defence
Mikel Arteta will ring the changes for Thursday’s game with several fringe players getting their chances to impress. Starting with the defence, Rob Holding should come into the Arsenal lineup at the expense of William Saliba. Ben White could play in his natural position at centre-back on Thursday, where he will start beside Holding.
Takehiro Tomiyasu and Kieran Tierney should start at right-back and left-back, respectively in the Arsenal lineup. Meanwhile, Cedric Soares’ return from injury will be a massive defensive boost for Arteta.
Midfield
Granit Xhaka has been fantastic this season, showing great authority and controlling games in the middle of the park. The Swiss is a certainty to keep his place in the Arsenal lineup, but Thomas Partey and Martin Odegaard might drop to the bench.
Albert Sambi Lokonga and Fabio Vieira are likely to come in for Partey and Odegaard, hoping to make an impact against the Norwegian outfit.
Attack
Reiss Nelson is in line to make his first appearance of the season after recovering fully from a muscular problem. He will start on the right, with Marquinhos replacing Gabriel Martinelli on the left flank in the Arsenal lineup.
Eddie Nketiah is expected to lead the line for Arsenal in midweek. The young Englishman’s blistering pace and smart movement in front of the goal could cause a lot of trouble for the Bodo/Glimt defence. The likes of Martinelli and Saka could be brought off the bench if required.
