After Saturday’s disappointing result at home to Manchester United the fans need a response from their team.

Olivier Giroud’s unexpected early return from injury in that game. as well as his brilliant goal to beat David de Gea in the Red Devils goal, would have prompted many to expect the Frenchman to start against Borussia Dortmund. Unfortunately, due to Arsenal not selecting him in their preliminary CL squad, he cannot be picked for this game – or any of the remaining group stage fixtures.

This now begs the question of whom will be picked to start up front? If the choice was based on current form it would have to be Alexis Sanchez. The Chilean has arguably been the best player for Arsenal this season and this is back up by the forward being voted Player of the Month by Arsenal fans two months in a row. For October he had more than 90% of the vote, this clearly demonstrates his key role within the team; his variety of goals has shown his quality, even bagging a couple with his headers! He almost has the same goal total as the rest of the Arsenal team put together. Despite his aerial prowess, Sanchez’s lack of height may be an issue against Borussia Dortmund’s Mats Hummels & co but he will keep fighting for the team until the final whistle.

Another option for Arsenal is Danny Welbeck, he has been in decent form for the Gunners this season due to a consistent run of games playing up front. He adds height to the team and his runs in behind defenders lead to more space available for the likes of Oxlade-Chamberlain, Alexis Sanchez and Theo Walcott (when fit). Similar to Sanchez, Welbeck’s work rate cannot be questioned, his headers in his own box when defending corners is important to the team as well due to the lack of height in this Arsenal side. His goal tally of five goals is one of the best in the team but some still question whether he can be prolific and play a part in the bigger games. It is too early to judge him on being a prolific goal scorer but with the amount of games he is starting in his favoured position he maybe needs to convert more of his chances.

My third and final option is a player who has not been in the manager’s plans a lot this season, Lukas Podolski. The German international has a clinical left foot and has not been given much of a chance this season. He has started only one game and scored his only goal against Anderlecht. His left foot is nearly unstoppable. His experience in big games could count for something as well.

Personally, I would choose Danny Welbeck with Alexis and the Ox just behind him. This trio has worked in most games and the blend of pace, power and dynamism is a joy to behold.

Click below to find out who this Arsenal TRIO is…