Mikel Arteta has told Arsenal’s official website that Willian has a ‘good chance’ of playing in the Europa League tonight.
Willian has fallen out of starting contention at Arsenal in recent weeks, but has still been brought off the bench fairly regularly.
The Brazilian has still struggled to make an impact as a substitute, with the criticism continue to come in for his performances.
But Arteta insists that Willian could still have a chance to play, and when asked whether he will feature against Benfica this evening, Arteta said: “Well, he’s part of the squad so he’s got a good chance.”
If Willian does start for Arsenal this evening it is sure to be a controversial selection choice.
Many Gunners fans were surprised when Willian was favoured over Gabriel Martinelli from the bench last weekend, as Arsenal beat Leeds United.
Arteta is expected to name a strong team tonight, as Arsenal are eyeing a victory in the competition.
The Gunners’ best chance of playing in the Champions League next term may be by winning the Europa League, and there are hopes that they will be good enough to progress past Benfica fairly comfortably.
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