Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta had to change his ways and rotate his line-up against Luton… but the move paid off and he will need all his players for Premier League title race run-in

Mikel Arteta has a penchant for consistency. Just a couple of adjustments, at most, is the protocol for your Arsenal lineup.

That is why the five changes made by Luton on Wednesday surprised many.

Not because it didn’t make sense, but because it is not within Arteta’s usual modus operandi. Like the Spaniard’s reluctance to play with youth players in the first team.

Looking at the bigger picture, it was this success in the rotation that in many ways surpassed the 2-0 win against Luton.

The selection of this team is crucial ahead of a busy month that will see Arsenal play two games a week in April, including two Champions League games against Bayern Munich.

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If the Gunners are to achieve their dreams and more, it is the groundwork done now that will pay off in the end.

Emile Smith Rowe, who had previously battled injury and was linked to Chelsea in the summer transfer window, shone in a rare appearance.

The midfielder’s tackle and pass led to Martin Odegaard’s first goal, and his cross caused Daiki Hashioka to convert the ball into his own goal.

He could well have a role to play in the coming weeks.

Reiss Nelson, who had not started a Premier League match since July 2020 against Liverpool, was given a chance and looked lively at times.

Not at the level his team requires, but promising signs.

And then Thomas Partey made his first start since his long-term injury.

For the first time since August, barring the long-absent Jurrien Timber, the Gunners have a full squad to choose from.

Just a handful of names on the bench, including Jorginho, Declan Rice and Gabriel Martinelli, as well as Bukayo Saka, who wasn’t even in the team, reflect the depth Arsenal have.

Every member of the north London club’s squad will be required in some capacity before the end of May.

For now, the signs towards silverware are very promising.