Gunners ready to open up NINE-point gap with huge win at Chelsea, this is the XI to do it

 By Danong

After a spirited bounce back from the 2-2 draw against Sunderland, with convincing wins over Tottenham Hotspur and Bayern Munich, Arsenal now turn their attention to Chelsea.  

For this clash, the Gunners make the short trip to Stamford Bridge eager to sustain their fine form and stretch nine points clear of the Blues.  

In their 3-1 victory over Bayern, Arsenal welcomed back Martin Odegaard, and this Sunday, they could also have Viktor Gyökeres available for selection.  

Meanwhile, Chelsea may be buoyed by the possible return of their key man, Cole Palmer, who has been nursing an injury.  

Unbeaten in six matches, with five wins and a draw, the Blues go to this match at their strongest; they cannot be underestimated.  

Nevertheless, Arsenal have dominated London derbies, suffering only three defeats in their last 40 encounters, while winning 28 and drawing 9. On Sunday, they will be aiming to notch up a 29th victory.

Arteta should not hesitate to deploy the line-up that dismantled Spurs; it could well overwhelm Chelsea too.  

That said, a necessary adjustment may be required on the left wing, with Leandro Trossard a doubt through injury. Hopefully, Gabriel Martinelli can step up. If he does, the left wing should be in safe hands.

Alternatively Arteta may decide to start with Noni Madueke and utilise Martinelli later if required with his finishing abilities! 

Merino’s role as a false #9 will continue to ignite Arsenal’s attacking play remarkably.

Raya  
Timber, Gabriel, Hincapié, Calafiori  
Zubimendi, Rice, Eze  
Saka, Merino, Martinelli  

Ultimately, a victory over Chelsea would send a resounding message: in the Premier League title race, there is only one team to beat and that team is Arsenal.