Match Previews

Sunday's derby was postponed due to injuries and Covid-19 cases within the Arsenal squad. Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang is out with health issues. Nicolas Pepe and Mohamed Elneny are away at AFCON. Granit Xhaka is suspended. Six players are doubtful through injuries. Martin Odegaard could miss out due to COVID-19.

Grabbed hard-fought 0-0 draw against Liverpool last Thursday, as they managed to hold on at the Anfield despite going down to 10 men early in the first half after Xhaka's sending off.

Key striker Aubameyang was stripped of captaincy and he's raining individually due to internal disciplinary matter. Joined up with his national team for AFCON, but he was sent back due to health issues. New captain Alexandre Lacazette is covering for him.

Backup forward Pepe and backup midfielder Elneny are away on AFCON duty.

Problem in midfield as Xhaka is suspended, Thomas Partey will return from AFCON this week, Emile Smith Rowe is doubtful through injury and Odegaard could miss out due to COVID-19. Albert Sambi Lokonga is the only fully-fit first-team midfielder. He could play alongside youngster Charlie Patito if Smith Rowe and Odegaard miss out.

Problem at right-back too, as starter Tomiyasu and backup defender Cedric Soares are both doubtful through injuries. Calum Chambers could fill in.

Starting forward Bukayo Saka suffered from fatigue against Liverpool. Should be fit for this one.

Coach Arteta refused to give any team news in the press conference prior the game.