Mikel Arteta is hoping to have Thomas Partey, Gabriel Magalhaes and Gabriel Martinelli back for Thursday’s match against Crystal Palace.
The Gunners have been without £45 million man Partey since the 2-0 North London derby defeat to Tottenham on 6th December, in which he was forced to come off at half-time with a thigh injury.
The Ghana international midfielder will lack match sharpness but has been back in training for a number of days.
Gabriel is also likely to return to the team after undergoing his period of self-isolation as a result of contracting the coronavirus.
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Brazilian wonderkid Martinelli could be among the substitutes after an ankle injury sustained in the pre-match warm-up at the Hawthorns almost a fortnight ago. It was feared initially this was serious, but that has not proven to be the case.
The recent form of Alexandre Lacazette should keep him out of the starting XI.
Bukayo Saka has impressed in a more advanced position and Emile Smith-Rowe seems to have solved Arsenal’s creativity crisis for the time being. Both are expected to start at the Emirates.
Rob Holding has recently signed a new contract and should be favoured to Pablo Mari in the centre of defence.
Cedric was preferred to Hector Bellerin against Newcastle in the FA Cup but the now Arsenal veteran will likely find his place in the back line.
Arsenal predicted XI against Crystal Palace
Thomas Partey 
Gabriel Magalhães 
Gabriel Martinelli 
Arsenal 
Crystal Palace 
