THE STORY SO FAR
Steve Gatting’s under-23s return to Premier League 2 action after the mid-season break looking to atone for a 3-2 loss to Liverpool at Anfield last time out.
Prior to that defeat, the Gunners had won three consecutive matches and risen to fourth in the table, after a slow start to the season.
They’ll now be looking to return to winning ways against Derby County.
THE OPPOSITION
The Rams arrive at London Colney as the only team in the division yet to take their points tally into double figures.
Derby have won just twice in 12 matches so far this season, with just one win in their previous five matches.
Last time out, the Midlands outfit lost 2-0 to Tottenham Hotspur.
ONE TO WATCH
Chuba Akpom could be in line for a return to action after recovering from a back injury.
The England Under-21 forward has been in full training with Arsene Wenger’s squad for some time now, but is yet to feature in a match since his return.
Akpom scored twice as we won 3-1 against the Rams at St. George’s Park earlier this season.
LAST TIME WE MET
Our under-23s picked up their first win of the Premier League 2 campaign when we last met Derby.
Gatting’s side won 3-1 on the road, with a brace from Akpom securing the win after Chris Willock’s opener.
The hosts’ goal came when Charles Vernam sent Hugo Keto the wrong way from the penalty spot.
FROM THE ARCHIVES
FOLLOW THE ACTION
You can get live updates by following @Arsenal on Twitter. Kick-off is at 1pm (UK time). This match is being played at Arsenal Training Centre and as such, the attendance of supporters cannot be facilitated on this occasion.
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