How Arteta's clever tweaks could outwit Hurzelar's Brighton

 By Danong 

After the 2-1 London derby victory over Chelsea, every Arsenal fan was left thinking the same thing: nine games to go, and we are champions.

Now, after today's clash with Brighton at the American Express Stadium, a win would bring that dream even closer; just eight games away from being crowned English champions.

Arsenal go to this clash against the Seagulls brimming with confidence. Unbeaten in nine games across all competitions, seven wins and two draws, many simply cannot fathom that Brighton, who have failed to beat them in five successive meetings, will have what it takes to stop them this time around.

The last time the two sides squared off, Arsenal edged it 2-1, with Georginio Rutter's unfortunate own goal handing the North Londoners all three points. This time, however, Arsenal will not be looking for any such favours; they will be out to win fair and square.

With a near-full squad at his disposal, save for the injured Mikel Merino and a doubt hanging over Ben White, Arteta can afford to go ruthless with his selection. 

Martin Zubimendi has not been at his best of late. The Spaniard has struggled particularly with ball progression, repeatedly going missing in games despite being the player tasked with linking defence and attack.

Fatigue may well be a factor, and a spell on the bench could be exactly what he needs to rediscover his mojo. In his place, the experienced Christian Norgaard could step in and breathe new life into Arteta's engine room.

Meanwhile, Leandro Trossard did not have the best of evenings in the win over Chelsea. At one point, he appeared more influential than Gabriel Martinelli, yet perhaps now is the right moment to hand the Samba Star his opportunity, a chance to fire this Arsenal side towards league glory.

Beyond those two changes, this Arsenal line-up looks more than capable of taking Brighton apart. And one player worth keeping a close eye on is Timber. The Dutchman has been in scintillating form, directly contributing to goals in each of the last two matches with both a strike and an assist to his name.

Raya

Timber, Saliba, Gabriel, Hincapie

Norgaard, Rice, Odegaard

Saka, Gyokeres, Martinelli