Official teams and preview of Arsenal v Southampton

As expected, it is a much changed Arsenal starting line-up that Arsene Wenger has picked for the third round visit of Southampton in the Capital One Cup. The big news, though, and something that should put a smile on all of our faces, is the return of Abou Diaby, as the most unlucky Frenchman in football makes his first senior start in 19 months.

It is a decent looking side as well, reflecting the fact that Wenger now has a much stronger looking Arsenal squad to choose from. Joel Campbell, Alexis Sanchez and Lukas Podolski is certainly not too shabby looking a front line, while Rosicky and Wilshere alongside Diaby is a fairly strong looking midfield as well. It is the defence that looks a bit inexperienced and could be a weak link tonight.

Ospina
Bellerin, Chambers, Hayden, Coquelin
Diaby, Wilshere, Rosicky
Alexis, Campbell, Podolski

subs: Martinez, Ajayi, Gibbs, Mertesacker, Chamberlain, Cazorla, Akpom

The Saints have kept a pretty strong line-up, as I expected, with the likes of Clyne, Fonte, Schneiderlin and Wanyama all starting, but if we get at them then I think our attacking talent could carry the day, whereas if we come under serious pressure, that unfamiliar and inexperienced back five could struggle. Good luck to the Colombian keeper on his Arsenal debut and Come On You Gunners!!

If you fancy going to the Emirates yourself then check out The Gooner News Guide To Buying Tickets To Watch The Arsenal– Version 2.0 –