Arsenal could be without 4 players for Crystal Palace clash

Arsenal could be without four players for Sunday’s Premier League clash against Crystal Palace at home.

The Gunners recently bowed out of the Europa League in the round of 16 stage. They were favourites to make the quarter-final after a 2-2 draw at Sporting in the first leg but failed to show up at the Emirates Stadium.

Manager Mikel Arteta surprisingly made five changes to the starting line-up on Thursday and it obviously backfired in the end. Sporting won the penalty shoot-out following a 1-1 draw in regulation time.

Meanwhile, the defeat came as a cost with Takehiro Tomiyasu picking up a serious injury. Judging by Arteta’s post-match comments, the Japan international could be sidelined for some time.

Aside from Tomiyasu, William Saliba was also taken off early in the first half on Thursday. Arteta was unsure over his condition but hopefully, he will be deemed fit for the London derby tomorrow.

Apart from the duo, Arsenal are already missing Mohamed Elneny and Eddie Nketiah with long-term injuries. While Nketiah could return for the season run-in, Elneny is out for the rest of the season.

Hence, Arsenal could be without four players for tomorrow’s game at the Emirates Stadium but this should not hamper their performance. Saliba is the only recognised starter, who may not feature.

Arsenal must respond with a strong display against managerless Palace on the back of the shock European exit.

The Eagles are currently on a 11-match winless streak in the top-flight which led to Patrick Vieira’s sacking but the Gunners will still need to play at their best to overcome the derby challenge.

The south London outfit have been a bogey club for the Gunners with just two wins from the previous nine meetings. Hence, it won’t be a straightforward game but the fans will expect a win.

Arsenal have a brilliant opportunity to go eight points clear at the top of the league with a victory.

Stats from Transfermarkt.com