Mikel Arteta to make five Arsenal changes vs Inter Milan as £27m star returns

Arsenal take on Inter Milan in Tuesday’s Champions League clash at the San Siro.

The Gunners played out a frustrating goalless draw against Nottingham Forest in the Premier League on Saturday evening.

Despite this, they extended their lead at the top of the table to seven points after defeats for Manchester City and Aston Villa.

Arsenal will now be aiming to return to winning ways against the Nerazzurri, who beat them 1-0 in the league phase of the Champions League last term.

Hakan Calhanoglu scored a penalty after a controversial handball at San Siro, and the Gunners have the opportunity to avenge the result tomorrow night.

Arsenal are virtually into the round of 16 of the Champions League. They require just one point from their final two league matches to guarantee their berth.

Ahead of the game, manager Mikel Arteta could make five changes from the stalemate at the City Ground.

Lewis-Skelly returns in defence

Lewis-Skelly has made just one Premier League start for the Gunners this campaign, but has been a regular in the starting XI in other competitions. He has made the first XI in four of his five European appearances and should get the nod at left-back. Jurrien Timber could be given a breather ahead of a crucial league clash against Manchester United at home on Sunday.

Eberechi Eze earns rare start in midfield

Eze has gone completely out of the picture for a starting role in the Premier League, with captain Martin Odegaard being an undisputed starter in the attacking midfield slot since his injury comeback. Eze came on as a late substitute against Forest, and we anticipate the summer signing to get the nod over Odegaard from the off against the Nerazzurri.

A new Arsenal attack

There could be a completely new attack against the Serie A leaders. Noni Madueke had a lively outing against Forest on the road. He created a wonderful chance in the opening half, but Gabriel Martinelli somehow could not find the back of the net.

Still, there should be a change on the right wing with Bukayo Saka being reinstated after his substitute role. Martinelli was wasteful on the opposite end and should make way for Leandro Trossard despite the fact that he has scored in five consecutive Champions League games. Trossard, signed for £27 million, has been one of Arsenal’s best players this term with 13 goal contributions thus far.

Viktor Gyokeres missed a glorious opportunity to open the scoring from a counter-attack last weekend. He had a head start over Murillo, but could not get away from the Brazilian, who made a fine tackle to block his shot. Arteta may freshen things up with Gabriel Jesus leading the line.

Stats from Transfermarkt.com

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