Arsenal line-up v Burnley – Another midfielder ruled out but good news over defender

Following a lean period, Arsenal gained a welcome three points last weekend when Sunderland handed them two goals, and the Gunners will be favourites to do win again this time around as they take on the Premier League’s basement club Burnley.

The Clarets’ failure to win a league game this season will be encouraging for Arsene Wenger, who knows nothing but a win will do as his side look to reel in Chelsea’s lead at the top of the table.

The big concern however continues to be injuries, with Kieran Gibbs and Jack Wilshere added to the large number of names already on the Arsenal treatment table.

Gibbs limped off against Sunderland last weekend with a hip problem, with Wenger describing him as a ‘doubt’ for Saturday’s clash, although in typical fashion the Frenchman admitted he was ‘confident’ the full-back will win his battle to be fit, with a knowing glint in his eye.

The outlook for Jack Wilshere isn’t as positive though. Despite serving his brief suspension, the midfielder received a knock on his knee that is expected to keep him out of action until next weekend.

Beyond the England pair, Yaya Sanogo is ready for selection after recovering from injury, while Theo Walcott should be able to play some role on Saturday, although Wenger admitted that he is not ready to start just yet.

Below is how Arsenal could line-up on Saturday:

Wenger’s comments over Gibbs suggests he will start for Arsenal this weekend, meaning Nacho Monreal will likely partner Per Mertesacker in central defence again.

Wilshere’s absence means that it should be either Aaron Ramsey or Mathieu Flamini partnering Mikel Arteta in the middle of the park. We’ve gone for the Welshman, based on his strengths going forward, something Arsenal could utilise to break down a Burnley side that will likely sit deep.

In attack, once again Wenger’s options are limited. Alexis Sanchez’s sterling performance means that he might be better used going through the middle, however, expect him to dovetail with Santi Cazorla - should the Spaniard get the nod to start.

Arsenal fans, how do you think you’ll line-up against Burnley? Comment below…