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Football London
Football London
Sport
James Benge

Arsenal confirmed XI vs Norwich: Freddie Ljungberg names his first side; Mustafi, Willock start

Freddie Ljungberg has handed starts to Shkodran Mustafi and Joe Willock in his first Arsenal side as interim head coach.

Mustafi will start in the heart of a four man defence against Norwich City with David Luiz. Further forward Arsenal are expected to line up in a diamond with Mesut Ozil at its tip.

Hector Bellerin (ankle) and Rob Holding (hamstring) remain unavailable.

Despite speculation on social media Kieran Tierney travelled with the matchday squad as did Kolasinac. Reiss Nelson is the player to make way.

Ljungberg, who has never taken charge of a senior football match, has not had long with his new charges and took his first full session with the Arsenal squad on Saturday. Those who had not featured fully in Thursday night's Europa League defeat to Eintracht Frankfurt had also undertaken light work on Friday.

Discussing what his approach will be during his time in charge, Ljungberg said on Saturday: "I like entertaining football but of course at the same time you can't concede goals. That's a tricky balance to find.

James Benge on Unai Emery being sacked

"For me, happy footballers play the best football. That's a part I learnt as a player, there is a time to work hard but at the same time we need to enjoy what we're doing. Often the players we have enjoy playing offensive football which makes them happy."

Arsenal XI: Leno; Chambers, Mustafi, Luiz, Kolasinac; Xhaka, Guendouzi, Willock, Ozil; Lacazette, Aubameyang

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