Arsene Wenger drops hint over team selection for Champions League clash with Dinamo Zagreb

Arsene Wenger has hinted he will rest players for the game against Dinamo Zagreb

ARSENE WENGER has suggested he will be resting players for Arsenal's Champions League trip to Zagreb tonight.

 

The Gunners get their group-stage campaign off and running tonight (7.45pm) against Croatian giants Dinamo Zagreb.

The side are relative minnows in Europe's elite tournament, having never won a single game at this stage of the competition.

 

And Wenger has hinted he will take the opportunity to rotate his squad, understanding the game could be a good time to give key players a rest.

Hector Bellerin and Aaron Ramsey have already been left in London, while Per Metesacker and Jack Wilshere have also not flown with the team.

 

Per Mertesacker has been left at home following illness and a car accident

Mertesacker missed the last three games due to illness and was involved in a car accident this week, and Wilshere has been ruled out until Christmas following leg surgery.

Wenger said: “It is more the global programme we have to absorb in the next three weeks, rather than one game.

 

I try to keep the balance right and give a little breather to players who need it

Arsene Wenger

 

Aaron Ramsey has not travelled with the squad to Croatia

 

“I knew since I [found out] our schedule that I have a squad of 20 players, all experienced and every decision I make is very difficult.

“It is quite easy to change two or three players, [more] than it was in years before because they are all at a very good level.

“I know the same team cannot play every single game over the next three weeks. I try to keep the balance right and give a little breather to players who need it.”