An insipid draw against a poor Crystal Palace side means that instead of barely challenging for the title, Arsenal are nervous about holding onto the top four. Luckily, a draw at St. James’ Park on Tuesday evening means that the north London side can reclaim 3rd spot with a win.
An odd game on Thursday, the day the Gunners will be frequenting next season if performances remain the same way, sees West Brom visiting the Emirates Stadium. They’re on poor form, having not won a game since early March, and with safety assured, the Midlands side appear to be going through the motions.
Pulis’ side have carried on playing four centre halves in defence, although it’s unlikely Arsenal would score from a cross if 4 small full backs were playing instead. It means that they rely on sitting deep and launching long balls through to Berahino, or for the dangerous Salomon Rondon to hold up. This should provide no rest for the Arsenal defence, who appear to think the end is nigh every time a high ball comes too close.
A big decision for Arsene Wenger is whether to make changes. Arsenal really didn’t create too much against Palace despite the possession, so drafting in Aaron Ramsey for Francis Coquelin or Mohamed Elneny may be sensible.
Arsenal only need to watch out for one thing this game; themselves. Naturally, this team appear to be their own worst enemy, choking every time success is in reach. Rondon could also be dangerous; as an all round striker, and Gabriel looking nervous from crosses, the West Brom forward could leap through the air much like his namesake to score.
Arsenal’s most effective player could once again be Alexis Sanchez. A high risk, high reward player, he looks the club’s only individualistic spark in the side, a necessity with the incoherent brand of football being playing.
Match facts
– West Brom have scored just once in their last four league games, compared to Arsenal, who have scored 10 times.
– West Brom’s top assist maker has three assists, compared to Ozil’s 18.
– West Brom have won just one of their last 11 Premier League away games (W1 D5 L5).
Team news
– Jack Wilshere may be available for Sunday’s game at Sunderland after playing his 3rd Under 21s fixture (and scoring). Santi Cazorla has rejoined full training while Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain remains on the sideline.
– Chris Brunt remains injured meaning James Chester will occupy the left back spot, although the return of Jonas Olsson may be something for Pulis to consider.
Predicted XI:
Arsenal (4-2-3-1): Cech; Bellerin, Gabriel, Koscielny, Monreal: Coquelin, Elneny; Alexis, Ozil, Iwobi; Welbeck.
West Brom (4-4-1-1): Foster; Dawson, Mcauley, Evans, Chester; Sessegnon, Yacob, Fletcher, Mcclean; Berhaino; Rondon.
