The former Manchester City duo had both been absent with calf and knee issues respectively in recent weeks, although Jesus was expected to return after being spotted in team training during the club's winter break in Dubai. Arteta refused to comment on either in detail during his press conference on Friday but it seems as though both have recovered.
Leandro Trossard has also been handed a rare league start ahead of Gabriel Martinelli with the Brazil international struggling for form this season. Despite that, Arteta has continued to persist with him and his verdict from back in December has suggested exactly why.
"No I think he’s been unlucky in certain moments", the Spaniard replied when quizzed on the 22-year-old's output dropping off following the 2-1 win against Wolves. "Today he had two big chances as well. The contribution he has in the team is immense. I’m really happy for him."
Martinelli's work rate when not in possession has clearly been the reason for his continued inclusion, however Arteta has made the decision to drop him in favour of Trossard. When offered minutes, the Belgium international has been in good form with six goals this season in all competitions that have all been assisted by Bukayo Saka.
With Trossard, Arsenal will have a very different option on the wing both offensively and defensively and it may be in the latter where struggles occur for Zinchenko. The 27-year-old has been in mixed form this season with his errors at the back often overshadowing his strong work on the ball to help get Arsenal moving.
However, Jakub Kiwior has also found it difficult when put into that position and that seems to be why Arteta has opted for Zinchenko. Against the Eagles, Arsenal are expected to have more of the ball and that is why Zinchenko will be needed, however with players like Eberechi Eze on the pitch for the visitors, there is a worry he can get at the Ukraine international's drawbacks.
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