There is no guarantee that Aubameyang and Lacazette will both start against Brighton.
The Arsenal forward line up to face Brighton on Thursday night may not be what we expect.
I have a very sneaky feeling that Freddie Ljungberg will drop Alexandre Lacazette in favour of Gabriel Martinelli.
Lacazette had a poor game against Norwich City and apart from the odd game has been poor most of the season. On the other hand, when Martinelli has been given a decent amount of time on the pitch he has produced the goods.
Laca appears to have lost his edge. His first touch, movement and hold up play has been below his normal standard.
At the same time, Aubameyang is far more effective in the centre but always seems to be moved to wings slightly to accommodate the inclusion of Lacazette.
Martinelli is young and full of energy and he would be happy to basically take Aubameyang’s role while Auba takes Lacazette’s position.
I can not see Nicholas Pepe starting. I have no idea what has gone on behind the scenes but Unai Emery lost faith in the Arsenal record signing and Ljungberg appears to agree with his predecessor.
Regardless of what forward line Freddie goes with I do not see it including Pepe who I suspect will start on the bench.
Bukayo Saka could be an alternative to Martinelli but he just looks too raw and I think Ljungberg will see that as well.
So, in conclusion, the two forwards I expect will start against the Seagulls will be Aubameyang and Martinelli.