Forgotten Arsenal star, 27, returns to starting XI for Crystal Palace clash almost 600 DAYS since last start for Gunners

KIERAN TIERNEY has been named in the Arsenal starting XI for the first time in almost 600 DAYS.

Mikel Arteta handed the defender the opportunity to play in the Carabao Cup clash against Crystal Palace.

Tierney, 27, last featured for the Gunners in the Community Shield against Manchester City in 2023.

He then spent the season out on loan at LaLiga outfit Real Sociedad.

But his previous start for the team was on May 14 in 2023, a day few Gunners fans will remember in a hurry.

Mikel Arteta's side were thumped 3-0 at home to Brighton in a game that all-but ended their title hopes.

Despite having countless chances to take the lead, Arsenal fell behind in the 51st minute courtesy of a Julio Enciso goal.

Denis Undav and Pervis Estupinan added two late goals to inflict further misery on Arsenal and leave them four points behind Manchester City with two games to play in the race for the Premier League title.

Ahead of Wednesday's clash with London rivals Palace, Arteta handed a number of fringe players a chance to impress, and gave some of his marquee stars a rest too.

Teenage wonderkid Ethan Nwaneri starts alongside Mikel Merino and Jorginho in midfield, while Raheem Sterling and Gabriel Jesus were also handed rare starting spots.

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Young goalkeeper Tommy Setford was named on the bench too, with second-choice goalkeeper Neto cup-tied having played for Bournemoth in the competition earlier this season.

Arsenal academy graduate Eddie Nketiah was also named on Crystal Palace's bench for the London derby.

Arsenal starting XI vs Crystal Palace: Raya, Partey, Timber, Kiwior, Tierney, Jorginho, Merino, Nwaneri, Sterling, Trossard, Jesus

Crystal Palace XI: Henderson, Kporha, Chalobah, Lacroix, Guehi, Mitchell, Lerma, Hughes, Sarr, Eze, Mateta