Arsenal predicted lineup vs Liverpool: Bellerin and Elneny start

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Arsenal return to action when they host Liverpool on Saturday, knowing that a win will move Mikel Arteta’s men to within one point of the champions.

The Gunners endured a bizarre final game before the break. They were 3-0 down inside 32 minutes against West Ham at the London Stadium. But they produced a stunning turnaround to earn a point.

That result will leave Arteta facing some tough decisions. And perhaps it should not be a surprise if one of the calls he makes proves to be quite unpopular amongst the fans.

Hector Bellerin missed the draw due to injury. In his absence, Calum Chambers produced a superb display, and was lauded by the fans. However, the Englishman is probably still building up his fitness and Arteta may deem it to be a gamble to use him against Liverpool.

So perhaps Bellerin will come back in. But Cedric Soares will also be a contender if a change is made.

There may be a change in midfield also. Mohamed Elneny has produced some colossal performances in some big games this season and he has enjoyed a very good international break.

Arteta may be tempted to pair him with Thomas Partey, reuniting the partnership that was outstanding in the win at Manchester United earlier this season.

That could mean Granit Xhaka misses out. And Arteta may be wary of making that decision, particularly given the miles both Elneny and Partey have got under their belts during the international break. But if the pair are fit, they may get the nod.

Two changes and Aubameyang decision

Unsurprisingly, the other notable decision comes further forward. Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang should start on the left.

With that in mind, here is a – tentative – attempt at predicting how Arsenal will look on Saturday…