The atmosphere here in the Transfer Tavern is electric, with the Arsenal supporting punters delighted with the club-record signing of striker Alexandre Lacazette.

The Lyon striker who has signed a five-year deal possesses the finishing qualities Gooners have been craving since Van Persie’s departure.

However, there’s always something holding back an Arsenal fan’s happiness – in this case it’s the uncertain futures of Alexis Sanchez and Mesut Ozil.

The pair have just one year to run on their current deals with the club, and it is a case of cash in or keep in for Arsene Wenger.

Suggestions of an Ozil departure are quietening here in the Tavern, but Sanchez is still at the heart of the transfer debate here in the pub.

With Arsene Wenger likely to maintain the successful 3-4-3 formation, the battle for a starting place has become even more competitive.

Unfortunately some stars will miss out.

Here, our landlord takes a look at the TWO players who Wenger will have to utilise on the opening day as impact subs…

Hector Bellerin

The Spaniard who has been rumoured to be flirting with a move back to Barcelona has had his starting place hijacked by Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain.

Bellerin showed poor form in the late part of the season and was subsequently dropped by Arsene Wenger.

To his credit, the 22-year-old did bounce back with a couple of impressive performances, including in Arsenal’s FA Cup final triumph.

However, it’s not enough to displace The Ox from a starting role.

Olivier Giroud

Giroud delivered a superb goals to game ratio for his side last season.

Only second to Harry Kane, the Frenchman netted 12 times in 11 Premier League starts.

The 31-year-old is likely to be willing to fight for his place next season – but sadly Giroud is going to need some knuckle dusters to shift Alexandre Lacazette from starting the opening game.