Arsenals: Who Should Start When They Take On West Ham?

(Photo by Michael Regan/Getty Images)

Arsenal will look to ensure their Premiership winning streak continues when they take on a struggling West Ham side. London Derby's are usually thrilling encounters and with Arsenal take on the Hammers this week and rivals Tottenham next week it is set to be an immense few weeks for Arsene Wenger men.

Arsenal are in good form and playing fast, free-flowing football which often results in a heap of goals. Bookies will undoubtedly be favouring an Arsenal win but with Gianfranco Zola's men desperate for a win, Arsenal may find it tough especially as it is an away fixture.

Who should start for Arsenal?

Defenders

Despite the usual back four of Bacary Sagna, William Gallas, Thomas Vermaelen, and Gael Clichy all playing mid week against AZ Alkmaar in the Champion's League, all should retain their place. The only question would be who will fill the keeper role. First choice Manuel Almunia is offically fit and strong and is probably the most likely option to start as Vito Mannone starred against the Dutch.

Midfielders

Wenger may have a touch challenge picking the five midfielders he will want to play. Captain Cesc Fabregas will no doubt feature. Alexandre Song will be given the defensive role which will most likely result with Abou Diaby playing just beside Fabregas.

As for the wider men, Tomas Rosicky is expected to be back for the Londond clash, Samir Nasri is still working his way back into first team action and Theo Walcott is missing for up to four weeks. Emmanuel Eboue, Andrei Arshavin or Tomas Rosicky will fill the two wide roles.

Forwards

Inform striker Robin van Persie has managed to stay fit for the opening stages of the season and has also assisted and scored. The Dutchmen has proven he can be a force as a lone striker. The vice captian is likely to play the lone striker role.

Nicklas Bendtner and Eduardo are both expect to start on the bench. Carlos Vela may miss out.

Substitutes

Vito Mannone should receive the back up goal keeper role whilst Mikeal Silvestre and Kieran Gibbs the back up defenders. Eduardo and Nicklas Bendtner will be the deputy strikers. Aaron Ramsey and either Tomas Rosicky or Emmanuel Eboue, depending on who starts.

As Arsenal will be clear favourites I too expect a win out of Wenger men.

You're currently logged into Facebook

Do you want to share your Bleacher Report activity on Facebook?