English Premier League: Predicting the Arsenal Starting XI vs. Manchester United

Arsenal's season and English Premier League aspirations may be considered futile thanks to a mere EPL win in their last six encounters, but Arsene Wenger's men have a superb opportunity to resurrect their Premier League hopes when they take on long standing rivals and EPL leaders Manchester United.

After thrillingly trailing Sir Alex Ferguson's men for the predominant period of the season in second place, the Gunners; recent demise has ensured United boast a nine point lead over their rivals whilst Wenger's squad has sucumbed to third place with Chelsea's recent form aiding the leap frog over their London neighbours.

However, Arsenal can not only reduce the lead at the top of the table, but also, they can derail Manchester United's title triumph. Albeit it will not be an easy task—the Gunners have been thoroughly unimpressive in recent weeks which was epitomized with their recent 2-1 loss to Bolton.

Still enduring their Carling Cup Final hang over, despite boasting relatively full fitness, Arsenal have appeared lethargic and psychologically deprived despite the severity of the need to succeed.

Arsene Wenger's men will no doubt rise to this occasion in which most of England will eagerly await. With the game staged at Arsenal's Emirates, the scene is set for this young Gunners outfit to redeem themselves and reinstate their footballing presence to not only the fans, but also, the footballing world.

Prior to the defeat to Bolton, United were the last side to have beaten Arsenal in the Premier League. Sir Alex Ferguson's men were able to secure a 1-0 victory in December, however it will have little bearing come Sunday.

Let's predict the Arsenal starting XI.

Goalkeeper

Young gun Wojciech Szczesny made his Premier League debut against Manchester United in December—his first step into his rapid development that has been a joy to watch for Arsenal fans. The Polish shot-stopper is a certain starter in between the post.

Meanwhile, Jens Lehman and Manuel Almunia are the experienced deputies with Spaniard Almunia destined to be given the bench role. Predominant first choice Lukasz Fabianski is still nursing his season ending shoulder injury which he suffered in January.

Defender

Arsenal received a huge positive during the week with defensive leader Thomas Vermaelen—who has been absent since August with a persistent ankle injury—completing 90 minutes for the Arsenal reserves, coincidentally against Manchester United.

However, the Belgium enforcer will not be considered fit enough to feature come Sunday.

This ensures the ever-present centre half-partnership of Johan Djourou and Laurent Koscielny will continue to perform. At right back, the always consistent Bacary Sagna will start whilst veteran Gael Clichy is at left back.

French international Sebastien Squillaci will receive the back up defender role alongside English international Kieran Gibbs. Ivorian Emmanuel Eboue is certain to miss out.

Midfielders

The almost fully fit and crowded Arsenal midfield will of course feature captain Cesc Fabregas, who will orchestrate and lead from the front in an attacking position. Renowned African Alexandre Song will start as the defensive midfielder whilst teenage sensation Jack Wilshere roves with a defensive mindset.

Imposing Frenchman Abou Diaby injured his calf against Tottenham last week. This leaves Aaron Ramsey, Tomas Rosicky and Denilson competing for a lone bench midfielder role, Welsh captain Ramsey looks likely to win out.

Forwards

Inform sharp shooter Robin van Persie, who boasts 16 goals since the New Year, will start as the lone striker, whilst dynamo Theo Walcott will torment down the right wing. French play maker Samir Nasri, whose form has dropped since an immense first half campaign, will work on the left.

This leaves Russian magician Andrei Arshavin and imposing strikers Nicklas Bendtner and Marouane Chamakh all on the bench, one would expect to see at least one of the trio feature late on.

Substitutes

With seven places on Wenger's bench, Manuel Almunia should be the deputy keeper whilst Sebasiten Squillaci and Kieran Gibbs are the emergency defenders. Aaron Ramsey, Andrei Arshavin, Nicklas Bendtner and Marouane Chamakh will be the bench attackers.

In what is predominantly always an exciting affair, can Arsenal restore seasonal pride against EPL leaders Manchester United?