Gabriel Martinelli

Preston could be perfect for 18-year-old to attempt more shots on target

Arsenal's Brazilian enjoyed a breakout campaign in 2021/22, scoring six goals in the Premier League having initially broken into the team as a winger. However, Mikel Arteta has deployed Martinelli as a striker this season due to Gabriel Jesus' injury, and the youngster has yet to find the back of the net.

Arteta has confirmed Martinelli will start vs Preston

The head coach told reporters that Eddie Nketiah will be rested for the cup clash, leaving Martinelli with an opportunity to lead the line. The Brazilian showed his quality in pre-season with three goals, and he'll be expected to rediscover that form against lower-league opposition.

Impressing against Preston will boost his confidence

Martinelli has started only one Premier League game this season, having been benched in favour of Bukayo Saka, who has nailed down the left-wing spot. A good performance and goal against Preston could give him the confidence to show Arteta he's worthy of a regular starting berth.

Kieran Tierney

Tierney restricted to only 3 appearances vs Preston

After an injury-hit 2021/22 campaign in which he missed the majority of matches, Kieran Tierney has managed just three appearances for Arsenal this season. He's fallen behind summer signing Oleksandr Zinchenko in the pecking order at left-back, and has been restricted to cameos in the Europa League and as a late substitute in the Premier League.

Preston provides chance for Tierney to prove fitness

Tierney started and played 90 minutes in Arsenal's 2-1 win over FC Zurich. The Carabao Cup clash with Preston will provide him with a welcome opportunity to continue building up his fitness. He'll be keen to stake a claim for a starting spot in Arsenal's next Premier League match away at Southampton on October 23.

Tierney needs strong performance to stay ahead of Tomiyasu

Takehiro Tomiyasu has been Arsenal's backup left-back this season, but there's nothing to suggest he can't challenge Tierney for a starting spot in the long term. Tomiyasu is younger than Tierney at 24, and he's impressed when called upon this season. Tierney needs to show Arteta that he deserves to keep his spot, even when fully fit.

Fabio Vieira

Vieira must show Arteta his quality

Fabio Vieira has had to be patient since joining Arsenal from Porto in the summer. The Portuguese playmaker is yet to start a game for the Gunners and has played just 76 minutes in total across all competitions. Arsenal's attacking midfield position is fiercely contested, with Martin Odegaard, Emile Smith Rowe and Gabriel Martinelli all ahead of Vieira in the pecking order.

Carabao Cup presents opportunity for Vieira to shine

The Carabao Cup tie against Preston is the perfect opportunity for Vieira to show Arteta that he's deserving of more regular game time. With Odegaard likely to be rested, Vieira could be in line to make his full debut for the club. A good performance and contribution will boost his chances of getting more minutes on the pitch.

Vieira has to justify Arsenal's large fee

Arsenal spent £34 million to sign Vieira from Porto, and the 22-year-old hasn't shown why yet. The attacking midfielder is incredibly talented, but he needs to start producing for the Gunners. The Carabao Cup tie against Preston is a great opportunity for Vieira to do just that.