The starting lineups for today's match are out, and Arsène Wenger has a couple of mild surprises. Lukas Fabianski returns from injury to start in goal. Johan Djourou takes the place in Sebastien Squillaci in defense, the Frenchman allocated to the bench. Theo Walcott is a mild surprise to start, while Robin van Persie makes his first appearance in the starting XI since hurting his ankle earlier this year. Andrei Arshainv and Marouane Chamakh, nominal starters for most of this season, join Squillaci on the bench.
Arsenal Vs. Chelsea: Arsene Wenger Hands Starts To Johan Djourou, Theo Walcott, Robin Van Persie
Van Persie in for Chamakh seems to be a straight judgment call - van Persie being first choice over Chamakh. The same could be said for Djourou's inclusion, thought Walcott's spot seems a tactical decision. The implied hope: Walcott's speed can act as a deterrent to Ashley Cole bombing forward. Arshavin ends up losing his spot, thanks to that choice, with Nasri switching flanks while Wenger retains his midfield.
Arsenal's Starting XI (4-2-1-3): Lukasz Fabianski / Bacary Sagna, Johan Djourou, Laurent Koscielny, Gaël Clichy / Alexander Song, Jack Wilshire - Cesc Fàbregas / Theo Walcott, Robin van Persie, Samir Nasri.
Arsenal Bench: Wojciech Szczesny, Sebastien Squillaci, Abu Diaby, Tomas Rosicky, Andrei Arshavin, Marouane Chamakh, Nicklas Bendtner
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