Gabriel Jesus starts as Mikel Merino given surprise role – Arsenal line-ups vs Everton

Arsenal writers give their view on who should start for the Gunners in their Premier League bout with Everton

Arsenal take on Everton at the brand new Hill Dickinson Stadium as Mikel Arteta’s side need to make a statement and secure top spot before Christmas. Arteta knows the likelihood is they will be in second place come kick-off as they follow Manchester City’s clash at home to West Ham United.

He has lost another player from his selection too as Ben White was injured in the win over Wolves. The performance in the last game was widely criticised, and now the likes of Declan Rice and Martin Odegaard are expecting a much-improved display.

Arteta needs to get his team right for the clash against an opponent who have taken plenty of points off them in the past. Thankfully, football.london’s writers are on hand to give their view on who they think should start.

Tom Canton

I think overall this is a relatively cut-and-dry eleven to choose from; however, there is one position which is causing some discussion, centre-forward. Certainly, my view on Viktor Gyokeres remains open, and I firmly believe he deserves the season to make his mark.

However, having watched both his and Gabriel Jesus’ contributions in the last two games, I firmly believe that for a match of this importance, the player who gives the Gunners the best chance of winning is the Brazilian.

Elsewhere, Martin Odegaard returns to the number ten role, giving Eberechi Eze the chance to make an impact from the bench.

Canton’s Arsenal XI vs Everton: Raya; Timber, Saliba, Hincapie, Calafiori; Zubimendi, Rice, Odegaard; Saka, Jesus, Trossard

Sam Truelove

Everton's squad is heavily depleted, especially in midfield, and Arsenal should look to take full control of this one as early as possible to quieten the noisy Saturday evening crowd.

Riccardo Calafiori comes back in at left-back following his suspension, but the backline more or less picks itself at the moment due to injuries.

In midfield, I would start a trio of Martin Zubimendi, Declan Rice and Martin Odegaard. A big performance from the Gunners captain is needed, I feel, to silence his doubters, and this could be the place to do it.

It could well be Mikel Merino up top, but I would start Viktor Gyokeres. The Swede's style could be better suited against the tough Toffees centre-backs, while Leandro Trossard and Bukayo Saka are my picks on the wings.

Truelove's XI: Raya; Timber, Saliba, Hincapie, Calafiori; Zubimendi, Rice, Odegaard; Saka, Gyokeres, Trossard