Predicted Arsenal line-up (4-2-3-1) vs Southampton, Aubameyang ruled out

Arsenal are scheduled to host Southampton in the Premier League this afternoon. The Gunners have lost back-to-back games in the top-flight.

They have picked up just three points from the last 12. Mikel Arteta will be hoping for a strong response from his side against the Saints.

Predicted Line-up:

Aaron Ramsdale is a guaranteed starter between the sticks. Bernd Leno has been the deputy goalkeeper over the past three months, and it is unlikely to change today.

In defence, it could be an unchanged line-up from Monday's 2-1 loss to Everton. Takehiro Tomiyasu and Kieran Tierney should continue in the full-back roles with Ben White partnering Gabriel in central defence.

Granit Xhaka has just returned from a long-term ankle injury, and he could drop to the bench. Thomas Partey's form has been a worry, but the Ghanaian is likely to be backed by Arteta. Albert Sambi Lokonga could partner him in midfield.

Martin Odegaard has been the pick of the Arsenal players in the last two games with back-to-back goals. He should start in the number 10 spot. Bukayo Saka and Emile Smith Rowe appear likely to take up the right and left wing positions.

Smith Rowe is expected to start, provided he has passed the late fitness test for a groin problem. Gabriel Martinelli could be tasked to lead the line with Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang potentially sidelined. He was absent for yesterday's training session.

Predicted Arsenal line-up (4-2-3-1): Ramsdale; Tomiyasu, White, Gabriel, Tierney; Partey, Lokonga; Saka, Odegaard, Smith Rowe; Martinelli.