CRYSTAL Palace could be facing an Arsenal side without World Cup winners Mesut Ozil, Per Mertesacker and Lukas Podolski on the opening day of the new Premier League season.
The German trio have reportedly been given an extended break following their exploits at the World Cup in Brazil, with all three not expected back to pre-season training until four days before the Palace game on August 16.
As a result, Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger has said it is unlikely the trio will feature against Tony Pulis' Eagles side at the Emirates Stadium.
