Arsenal take on Swedish minnows Ostersund in the Europa League Round of 32 first-leg clash.
Gunners boss Arsene Wenger has selected a stronger squad compared to the group stages – perhaps an indicator the North London based outfit will prioritize the Europa League as a way to qualify for the Champions League next season.
Wenger revealed that he has not decided who his captain will be heading into the game but confirmed Mesut Ozil could end up wearing the armband – although he admitted he would prefer a defensive player with the role.
The Gunners boss responded to a question in his pre-match press conference regarding who will be captain by saying: “I haven’t thought about that. It’s an interesting question I have to sort out tonight.”
When asked whether Ozil could be named captain, Wenger said: “It could be. I prefer a more defensive player most of the time. We’ll see.”
See More: ‘AWOL. The Most Fitting Acronym I’ve Ever Seen’ – Fans Bash Arsenal Star After Tottenham Derby Display
Ozil has yet to play a Europa League game this season, in fact, he has not played a single minute in the competitions since joining Arsenal in 2013.
The Gunners had competed in the Champions League every previous season since Ozil made completed his Arsenal transfer.
The playmaker of Turkish origin has been in impressive form this season and has seven goals as well as five assists in all competitions.
The Gunners head into the game as favorites but Ostersund have proven to be giant killers this season.
The Swedish side knocked Galatasaray out of the Europa League play-off round, 3-1 on aggregate.
Ostersunds also beat Hertha Berlin and drew with Athletic Bilbao on their way to finishing second in their group.
The Gunners will have just one recognised striker available – Danny Welbeck.
Alexandre Lacazette is out for up to six weeks following knee surgery, while former Borussia Dortmund striker Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang is ineligible to play in the competition.
