Saka captains side against Sheffield United

Bukayo Saka captains the side for the visit of Sheffield United to Emirates Stadium on Saturday.

Martin Odegaard misses out – one of five changes to the side that faced Sevilla in midweek. Jakub Kiwior comes into defence for only his second league start of the season, with Gabriel making way. Emile Smith Rowe and Kai Havertz also come into the side, while Alex Zinchenko returns at left back, replacing Takehiro Tomiyasu.

Eddie Nketiah starts up front, with Gabriel Jesus ruled out through injury.

Explaining his selection, Mikel Arteta said: "We have to refresh, we play so many games. Our internationals played six games in a row, 90 minutes, over a period of 20 days. You have to rotate. We are going to have to be really alive and sharp today. In order to do that, we have to change the team."

Discussing the decision to give Saka the armband, the boss added: "(It's because) the role he has in the team, the role he has the club – where he’s coming from, from our system, our academy, the values he transmits. The way he’s grown into the team and he’s surrounded by a lot of senior players."

As for the visitors, they include former Gunner Auston Trusty, the American defender joined Sheffield United from us in pre-season.

Arsenal: Raya, White, Saliba, Kiwior, Zinchenko, Rice, Smith Rowe, Havertz, Martinelli, Saka, Nketiah. Subs: Ramsdale, Gabriel, Tomiyasu, Elneny, Vieira, Jorginho, Trossard, Nelson.