Mikel Arteta probably would have preferred a quiet Wednesday after a busy weekend. After the drama surrounding their 2-2 draw with Manchester City died down, Arsenal cruised to a 5-1 victory over Bolton and into the fourth round of the Carabao Cup. For the time being, though, focus will be on the Premier League as we prepare for our fourth-round trip to Preston.

On paper, Arsenal’s match against Leicester looks to be a more benign opponent after their savage start to the season. The Gunners are big favourites, while the newly promoted Foxes have not won a game since returning to the top division.

However, Arteta must maintain a certain equilibrium. On Tuesday, his team will play PSG in a Champions League match. Following last week’s disappointing goalless draw between the Gunners and Atalanta, this game has assumed great importance. Their quest to finish in the top eight in the new league phase could be severely hindered if they continue to shed points.

A temptation to give Ethan Nwaneri his Premier League debut may arise from this consideration. In Thursday, on his Arsenal full debut, the Hale Ender looked completely at home and scored twice. Although it would be a significant leap, Arteta has suggested that the 17-year-old is prepared.

During his post-match press conference, the Spaniard stated, “I think it’s ahead of what anybody could expect.” I say this because, throughout his time with the first squad, he consistently exceeded expectations. Even better than I had anticipated. The minutes will go to him because he is deserving and because he is one of us.

A number of changes could be made by Arteta from Wednesday night’s match against Bolton, including the addition of Nwaneri. After Jack Porter became the youngest starter in Arsenal history at the age of 16, it’s highly likely that a new custodian will be in goal. The question of who will succeed him remains unanswered. Neto, who was cup-tied in midweek, might make his debut in place of David Raya, who is ailing with a thigh injury.

After getting Wednesday off, Jurrien Timber should ideally be back in the hunt as well. The knee injury that Ben White has been experiencing has not gone away, therefore the Dutch international has a chance to play at right or left back.

It is likely that Thomas Partey will also make a comeback to the bench. Despite playing in the number six position instead of Jorginho, the Ghanaian had a season-high performance in the match against Manchester City.

When it comes to the attacking line, Bukayo Saka will start on the right side of the pitch and Kai Havertz could be sent back up top. On the other hand, clarity is slightly impaired on the left.

Leandro Trossard’s one-game punishment for his questionable red card against City is gone, and he is now allowed to play again. While Gabriel Martinelli has been the go-to man in this position in the past, Arteta may be tempted to keep Raheem Sterling on the pitch after his impressive performance against Bolton. With PSG’s high line on Tuesday on the horizon, Martinelli could need some relaxation after this. An attacking threat from Arsenal might come from Gabriel Jesus as well.