Expected Arsenal line-up vs Chelsea, Xhaka returns

Arsenal will be aiming to return to the top of the Premier League when they face Chelsea at Stamford Bridge on Sunday. The Gunners have a good recent record against the Blues and have won the last two meetings at their home ground.

Formation: 4-2-3-1

Predicted Line-up:

Aaron Ramsdale is a constant between the sticks. He has played every minute in the top-flight this season and is expected to continue in goal. The England star has four clean sheets away from home this campaign.

In front of him, there should be a solitary change.

Rob Holding should make way for the return of William Saliba in central defence. Takehiro Tomiyasu has been the regular left-back since October but he is doubtful after picking up a hamstring issue in midweek.

Regardless of this, Kieran Tierney deserves to start after a top display against Zurich on Thursday, capped with a crucial goal which ensured that Arsenal avoided the play-off round of the Europa League.

In midfield, Mohamed Elneny and Albert Sambi Lokonga should drop to the bench from the midweek win. Thomas Partey and Granit Xhaka will take their places in the centre of the park.

Partey was a late substitute against Zurich on Thursday but Xhaka had a much-needed breather following his suspension for picking up three yellow cards in the first five group matches.

In attack, Reiss Nelson, Fabio Vieira and Eddie Nketiah are expected to drop to the bench. Bukayo Saka, Martin Odegaard and Gabriel Martinelli should partner Gabriel Jesus in the front four as usual.

The goals have dried up for Jesus after a bright start to the campaign, but the Brazilian offers much more than that. He has chipped in with key assists while his workrate and link-up play are invaluable.

Stats from Transfermarkt.com