Arsenal fans will be delighted to know that the trio of Mesut Özil, Santi Cazorla and Bacary Sagna all look likely to be fit, as the Gunners host Norwich this weekend.
Chris Hughton and Norwich fans will not only be wary of that trio, but of the fact that Arsenal are unbeaten in their last six matches. Their only defeat came on the opening day of the season.
It looks very positive for this confident Arsenal side. Midweek, many of the first-team players performed well for their respective countries. Olivier Giroud, Mesut Özil and Nicklas Bendtner all found the back of the net, among others.
It is possible that midfielder Anthony Pilkington will not be involved in the trip to North London, after picking up a hamstring injury during the international break. However, manager Chris Hughton is optimistic that he will play a part.
For me, this really is a big game for Arsenal, they have performed well so far this season, especially away from home, defeating teams like Marseille, Sunderland and Swansea. But I think this game will be a real tipping point in Arsenal’s season.
If the Gunners win this, which they really should, they will continue the confidence that they have started to build up, not to mention that it is a big statement out to the other big clubs, to show that they really does mean business now.
Ramsey for me, is the key player to look out for tomorrow. He has impressed a lot of people with his tally of goals this season, but I have also been impressed with some of his defensive work. An area I see as very important against a Norwich team that will be set up for a point. Mathieu Flamini should keep his place, and his experience has been vital. It’s very entertaining watching him tell every player where to be.
Long range shots will also be something that players will be cautious of – Norwich have many players capable of striking the ball from distance – and the likes of Flamini will need to intercept players to stop these attacks, but the defence, will also play an important role of making sure they push up to attack the ball, so the likes of Ricky van Wolfswinkel and Gary Hooper can be caught offside, to avoid him poaching on deflected shots.
It is a possibility that Wenger may favour Vermaelen to lead this defence, as the Belgium international knows the striker’s game inside-out from their time back in Holland.
“He is a clinical goalscorer, he makes good runs and is someone we will need to watch closely.” He told Arsenal.com earlier today.
For me, this should be routine win for Arsene’s side. My money’s on a 2-0 victory with Giroud as first goalscorer, however anything can happen with Arsenal.
If you fancy a flutter, here are five betting tips:
Arsenal to win 2-0: Arsenal are in great form and their defence are playing well. Why not back them to grab a couple of goals, whilst also keeping a clean sheet. BET ON THIS MARKET
Giroud to score first: Olivier Giroud has been great this season. With Özil and Cazorla behind him, he’ll certainly get the opportunities. BET ON THIS MARKET
Both teams to score: Arsenal are often seen as a team that have a bad defence – for whatever reason – but it isn’t inconceivable to think Norwich will score. BET ON THIS MARKET
Arsenal to score first and Giroud to win 2-0: BET ON THIS MARKET
Arsenal to win and both teams to score: BET ON THIS MARKET
