Arsenal: Predicting the Starting XI When They Take on Bolton

This weekend signifies the return of the Premier League which encountered an untimely absence due to International Friendlies and Euro 2012 qualifiers.

However, the glitz and glamour of English football returns for another scintillating round which is sure to be another thrilling, goalscoring feast of a weekend.

Arsenal take on Bolton in what will be another tough challenge for the Gunners. Arsene Wenger and his men have performed strongly in their opening three rounds and before the international break had pulled of a strong 2-1 win over a doughty Blackburn outfit.

Owen Coyle's men are a physically draining side who will look to pressure Arsenal with their physicality. This tactic has gotten the better of Wenger in recent years, and one can only expect the Trotters to come out kicking.

However, Arsenal do boast home ground advantage which will undoubtedly be a huge boost for the Gunners.

A worry however is the increasing injury list. Inform Theo Walcott, who boast a highly impressive four goals from three games this campaign, was injured for England during Euro qualifiers and will be absent for up to two weeks.

None the less it will still be a strong, fast flowing Arsenal squad so let's try to predict the starting XI.

Goalkeeper

Manuel Almunia has performed credibly during the opening three encounter with no glaring errors as of yet.

With Wenger failing to secure the signing of a quality keeper during the Summer Transfer Window, the Spaniard is almost certain to retain his place.

Deputy Lukasz Fabianski will play the role of deputy with boom youngsters Vito Mannone and Wojciech Szczensy, who both played for their respective nations at U-21 level during the International break, will await the League Cup for their chances.

Defenders

New signing Sebastien Squillaci from Seville completed 90 minutes whilst playing for the Arsenal reserve and may be in line for his Arsenal début. The French centre half, was a relieving sight for the Arsenal faithful as many felt the Arsenal backline was frail on numbers.

Although the 30 year old is no certainty to start, it is more than likely Bacary Sagna and Gael Clichy will cover the respective flanks with Sagna at right back and Clichy on the left.

Captain of the defence, Thomas Vermaelen, will have the left side of the centre with Laruent Koscienly, Squillaci, or Johan Djourou competing for the remaining central role. Koscienly looms the favourite.

Midfielders

Relief for Wenger as it looks as if all his midfielders who performed on international duty have pulled up unscathed. Expect the French mastermind to utilize three main central midfielders with two forward wingers.

Captain and midfield maestro Cesc Fabregas will be the attacking source and will hopefully put all the Barcelona rumours behind him.

This week was dominated by reports that Fabregas allegedly told a Spanish newspaper Arsenal forced him to stay this Summer. However, the 23-year-old will be pivotal if the Gunners are to overcome the ferocious Bolton physicality.  

Alexandre Song is likely to receive the defensive duties of the midfield. The Cameroon star will also be integral in overcoming Coyle's men.

Song will need to provide aggression and stability to the midfield, but fortunately the 23-year-old is in prime form and will relish the opportunity.

The remaining midfield spot remains uncertain. Denilson also completed 90 minutes for the reserves upon his comeback from injury. The Samba star will be eager to reinforce his skill onto Wenger and the Arsenal fans regime after having a somewhat disappointing 2009-2010.

However, Denilson is likely to be short for the Bolton clash.

This leaves Abou Diaby and Tomas Rosicky vying for the left central role. Diaby size and strength could see the Frenchman win out, but Rosicky is in outstanding form and will provide extra creativity and speed. However, it is up to Wenger.

Forwards 

With Robin van Persie's absence due to a persistent ankle injury and Nicklas Bendtner still short of match fitness, Marouane Chamakh will receive another start.

The Moroccan, who arrived at the Emirates this term from Bordeaux, has been impressive upon his introduction in the harsh Premier League.

The sharpshooters presence will be vital in Arsenal attack as the Moroccan striker is blessed with an imposing presence which will surely be met with some tenacious Bolton defending.

Chamakh will have the lone striker role whilst Andrei Arshavin should patrol the left wing. The Russian has suffered a minor form lapse, but there is no better place to rejuvenate than at the Emirates against a somewhat slow defence.

Walcott's absence is a devastatingly huge blow as the English speedster was in immense form and his speed would of been invaluable down the right.

Emmanuel Eboue is likely to take the former Southampton forward's place. Eboue will bring flair and creativity as well as a strong right boot.

Substitutes 

The seven places on the bench should be occupied by deputy keeper Lukasz Fabianski and most likely Kieran Gibbs and the non starter out of Squillaci and Koscienly. Likewise, the bench should contain Diaby and Rosicky.

Jack Wilshere and Denilson also should also get substitutes roles with Carlos Vela and English young gun Jay-Emmanuel Thomas receiving the back up forward commitments.

Another tough encounter which is a must win for Wenger and his youthful squad. Time and time again the footballing world has witnessed Arsenal falter on occasions like these, and if Wenger is serious about maintaining a title threat, this match needs to be won.