Tottenham vs Arsenal: Olivier Giroud likely to be recalled to starting XI for Capital One Cup clash

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger is ready to recall striker Olivier Giroud to the starting lineup for the Capital One Cup clash against Tottenham Hotspur on Wednesday, 23 September, as he prepares to name a strong team, despite his inclination to repose faith in the younger players in recent seasons. The French forward was overlooked for the clash against Chelsea and Newcastle United, with the manager opting to go with Theo Walcott as the central striker.

According to the Mirror, the decision to field a strong team will be welcomed by the fans as they are desperate for a win over their arch north London rivals. Wenger will also want to arrest his team's current slump, which has seen them lose two games on the trot in the Champions League and the Premier League.

Changes are likely to the starting lineup as Gabriel and Santi Cazorla were sent off during the clash against the Premier League champions and will be unavailable for the League Cup clash on Wednesday. David Ospina is likely to start in goal after being given the nod in the Champions League game against Dinamo Zagreb, while Mikel Arteta and Mathieu Flamini could be involved after Francis Coquelin suffered a minor knee injury during the game at Stamford Bridge on Sunday, 20 September.

Per Mertesacker is likely to return to the squad as well after missing the last few weeks due to illness. The German defender is likely to partner Laurent Koscielny or Calum Chambers at the heart of the Gunners' defence. It will be a crucial game for both teams, as they will be keen to go far in the competition, which represents a genuine chance of silverware for the sides.