Arteta must start ‘unreal’ 21-year-old for Arsenal on Saturday, he’d pick Norwich apart – TBR View

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For Arsenal, the international break couldn’t have come at a worse time.

The Gunners sit bottom of the Premier League table without a point or goal to their name.

But after a long and painful wait while the World Cup qualifiers took place, Arsenal are back in action this weekend.

As far as fixtures go, it’s fairly kind – newly-promoted fellow strugglers Norwich at the Emirates Stadium.

And obviously the pressure will be high, but Arsenal have been boosted by the return of several key players.

Gabriel Magalhaes, Ben White and Thomas Partey are available for selection and almost certain to start on Saturday.

That said, Mikel Arteta has some personnel problems elsewhere.

Mohamed Elneny and Granit Xhaka won’t be involved, due to injury and suspension respectively.

But this means Arteta could opt for a midfield combination that Arsenal fans would be excited to see.

Namely, Partey and Albert Sambi Lokonga.

Now, it’s worth mentioning that Lokonga sat out Belgium’s last match due to a knock.

“There was a small warning, I would not speak of injury, but of discomfort, in training,” said Roberto Martinez.

However, Walfoot claimed Lokonga’s issue is not serious and he should be available for Arsenal this weekend.

And Thursday’s Gunners fitness update didn’t mention the 21-year-old’s fitness either.

Assuming Lokonga is available for selection, Arteta must pick him alongside Partey.

Not only would it give the fanbase a boost – it’s something many fans want to see – but it would work well against the Canaries.

Both like to progress the ball forward but can also cover defensively if needed.

Given Norwich are likely to sit back, Lokonga can be the quarterback and pick the opposition defence apart with some nice passes into the final third while Partey goes forward.

If Arsenal play their cards right, there’s the potential for an impressive scoreline.

Lokonga has already hit the ground running at the Emirates, with fans deeming him “unreal“, so hopefully he can help mastermind a much-needed turnaround.