Arsenal forward Lukas Podolski set for central role against Tottenham

Lukas Podolski is set to be offered another chance to prove he can cut it as an Arsenal centre forward against Tottenham on Saturday.

Olivier Giroud is struggling to overcome an ankle problem in time for the FA Cup third round tie against his side’s bitter rivals.


And with Nicklas Bendtner set to miss at least three weeks with an ankle injury, Podolski is likely to play as the lone striker against Spurs.

Arsene Wenger prefers to utilise the Germany international on the left side of his front trio, though Podolski has played as a centre forward regularly for club and country.

The Gunners boss is also considering calling upon a number of the club’s talented youngsters for the clash.

Serge Gnabry is a contender to play against Tim Sherwood’s men, while there could be a place on the bench for young striker Benik Afobe.

Teenage midfielder Gedion Zelalem - who has been likened to Cesc Fabregas by Arsenal staff - could also make his senior debut.

The talented 16-year-old, who will sign a professional deal when he turns 17 later this month, is viewed as one of the best prospects to have come through the Gunners academy over the past decade.

With Giroud, Bendtner and Yaya Sanogo all sidelined through injury, Wenger does not have a fit recognised striker at the moment, though Podolski and Theo Walcott can play in the position.

A loan deal for Real Madrid striker Alvaro Morata remains the club’s preferred option in their search for a striker this month.