Mikel Arteta is expected to rotate his squad on Wednesday night as Arsenal face Bolton Wanderers in the Carabao Cup.
The Gunners will welcome the League One side to the Emirates in what will be Arsenal’s first home game since the last day of August.
As the Carabao Cup journey commences for Arteta’s side, it’s expected to provide a chance for several less-seen faces to make their mark.
Following a challenging few weeks on the road, Arsenal will be hoping to put on a show for their home supporters, with a number of players eager to make their presence known.
Mikel Arteta hints at Raheem Sterling involvement ahead of Arsenal vs Bolton clash
After the theatrics that occurred at the Etihad Stadium last time out for Arsenal, Arteta was quizzed on a number of topics in his pre-Bolton press-conference.
Aside from making a dig at Man City with a ‘dark arts’ comment, the boss turned his focus to proceedings at the Emirates on Wednesday night.
The clash with Bolton will give Arteta the much-needed chance to rotate his squad, with one player desperate to make an impact being Raheem Sterling.
- READ MORE: Mikel Arteta hints at Arsenal injury worry before Bolton clash in ‘dark arts’ dig at Man City
Speaking on the deadline day signing’s stance ahead of the third round cup fixture, the manager hinted at Sterling’s involvement.
“He’s very good, tomorrow he has another opportunity. He’s ready, he’s hungry.”
Arsenal have seen only 27 minutes of Sterling so far, with the winger featuring off the bench against Spurs and Atalanta.
Now, the 29-year-old could make his Carabao Cup debut for the Gunners, with an opportunity there for the England international to announce himself to the Emirates.
Sterling’s record in the Carabao Cup
While the Carabao Cup isn’t the most prestigious trophy in English football, it’s one that is special to Sterling, who has won the competition five times in his career.
All five of the Englishman’s trophy wins came as a Manchester City player, winning his most recent in 2021.
- READ MORE: Mikel Arteta could do something for the first time in Arsenal history vs Bolton in Carabao Cup
Aside from having a collection of winners medals in the tournament, the winger has been a consistent performer in the league cup throughout his senior career, representing Liverpool, Chelsea and City in the competition.
Sterling has contributed to 20 goals in 36 league cup appearances, scoring 11 himself and assisting nine goals for his teammates over the years.
The 29-year-old will now be hoping to add to his impressive tally on Wednesday night, with his hunger ahead of the fixture outlined by Arteta.
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