Kai Havertz dropped as Bukayo Saka and Jorginho start in dream Arsenal XI vs Brighton
Arsenal returned to winning ways against Luton Town and despite Liverpool managing to recover a lead against Sheffield United and return to the top of the table the Gunners can leapfrog them once again with a win over Brighton this Saturday. However, this is a much sterner test than the relegation-threatened Hatters were with their long list of injuries.
Brighton have lost just once in the league at home this season, taking points off Liverpool, Newcastle United and Tottenham in their bid to qualify again for European competition. They lost to West Ham in the opening weeks of the season but haven’t looked back since.
Mikel Arteta needs to choose an XI that can secure victory but is mindful of the challenge which awaits in just a few more days when Bayern Munich arrive in London. The Spaniard has some question marks over squad members, but momentum is certainly key.
David Raya naturally continues as the starting goalkeeper and will look to repeat the clean sheet he kept against the Seagulls in December.His distribution has faced some scrutiny in the last couple of games and so will be in focus for the away trip.
The back four returns to full strength after Oleksandr Zinchenko had a mixed display against Luton, losing possession and having a mix-up with Gabriel Magalhaes. The aforementioned Brazilian will instead be next to the well-rested Jakub Kiwior, and William Saliba and Benjamin White complete the back line.
Into midfield and despite Thomas Partey having a decent midweek game, Jorginho has earned his starting spot and the partnership with Declan Rice has been solid. He will hope to complete far more than just the 10 passes he managed against Manchester City, however.
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