On Saturday afternoon, Arsenal plays Southampton in the last game before the season takes a slight turn for the second international break. Arsenal is still unbeaten in all competitions. After defeating PSG 2-0 in the midweek, they are tied with Manchester City for the most points in the Premier League. They are also through to the fourth round of the Carabao Cup after defeating Bolton Wanderers.

Tuesday night’s matchup with PSG was another intense physical contest in which several players went above and above. Despite being spotted by football, Jurrien Timber was hauled off at halftime due to what Mikel Arteta characterised as a muscular ailment. It was preferable not to take any risks.London following the game proceeded as usual, which is presumably a good indication.

There is also some room for rotation after four games in less than two weeks, particularly against a Saints team that has had a dismal start to the new campaign. Though Arsenal and Arteta will be concentrating only on themselves, Aaron Ramsdale’s return to the goal will be one for the story writers.

Naturally, David Raya will play on, having moved past the problems that caused him to miss the match against Bolton. Gabriel Magalhaes and William Saliba’s normal pairing will also be in front of him.

However, Timber and Ben White’s fitness concerns could cause the full-back positions to shift. After the Dutch international was substituted, Riccardo Calafiori filled in at right-back, and Jakub Kiwior performed ok. However, with Takehiro Tomiyasu back in full training, Arteta may be able to insert the Japanese international at right-back at the ideal time.

I’m looking forward to what Mikel Merino, a Spaniard, can add to Arsenal’s midfield and Declan Rice’s return to the number six spot. This is how I would alter the squad on Saturday, as it seems like the ideal opportunity to rearrange the middle.

The last piece of the puzzle is Ethan Nwaneri, who has made two strong performances against Bolton and Leicester City, getting a complete Premier League start. It would be ideal to play alongside Rice and Merino to provide him the support and platform he needs to succeed.

Similar to Nwaneri’s performance against Bolton, Raheem Sterling impressed as well. He is rested after not playing against PSG. Since Bukayo Saka and Kai Havertz will still be starting in the forward line, he should get the chance to start this match against Southampton.