Arsenal squad because of a hamstring problem. Leandro Trossard replaces him in one of four changes from the win over Southampton a fortnight ago. The summer signing Mikel Merino makes his first league start and Ben White returns to the starting XI. Jorginho and Gabriel Jesus drop to the bench.
Bournemouth (possible 4-2-3-1) Kepa; Araujo, Zabarnyi, Senesi, Kerkez; Cook, Scott; Semenyo, Tavernier, Ouattara; Evanilson.
Substitutes: Travers, Huijsen, Brooks, Christie, Adams, Smith, Sinisterra, Kluivert, Enes Unal.
Arsenal (possible 4-1-2-3) Raya; White, Saliba, Gabriel, Calafiori; Partey; Merino, Rice; Sterling, Havertz, Trossard.
Substitutes: Setford, Kiwior, Zinchenko, Lewis-Skelly, Jorginho, Nwaneri, Martinelli, Jesus, Kabia.
Referee Rob Jones.
Bournemouth manager his record against last season’s top six is desperate: P14 W0 D1 L13 F4 A32 Pts 1. His team are far better than that, as they’ve shown against the rest, and with the odd bit of giant-killing they could easily finish in the top half. It would also enhance the reputation of Iraola ahead of the managerial silly season.
All this is easier said than done, especially tonight. Bournemouth are up against a relentless, ravenous Arsenal team whose only dropped points this season have come with 10 men. They’ll go top if they win tonight, at least until Manchester City and Liverpool play tomorrow. They also have the chance to join a very small club. Liverpool are the only English club to have won 2000 top-flight games; Arsenal are 1999 not out.
Kick off 5.30pm.
Source: theguardian.com
