Evening all,
Another must win game is fast approaching but this game is a must win for far different reasons than the last few we have had. We played Man City and it was a must win game to stay in the top four and consolidate our position. Then came the away game at Wolves which was also a must win as our rivals had dropped points so we could really cement our position. This time we have a chance to extend our lead and almost ensure a top four finish.
We can go into the mathematics and work out exactly how many points we need or how many games we can afford to lose but the most important thing is to win our next game. Cheesy as it is, we should only be looking at our next game and today, that is against Wigan.
The same team that recently stunned the current Champions Manchester United and was robbed against Chelsea; this will be no easy game by any stretch of the imagination. Wigan are a team who like to play football, and play football they do. They out passed and outplayed a Manchester United team that looks destined to win the league yet again. Wigan are an in form team and sit 6th in the form guide according to the last 6 games level on points with Man City and Chelsea on 11 points.
This style of football however will suit us far better than a team such as QPR who will instead opt to have ten players behind the ball at all times and only look to disrupt our play. Instead it will be a game of who will be able to play the better football and score goals, just the way it should be.
With this in mind, I can only see one winner but then again I usually am overly confident when it comes to Arsenal.
The team news according to Arsenal.com, is as expected with both Gervinho (doubt - ankle) and Gibbs (doubt - groin) facing late fitness tests. I expect the former will be deemed fit while the latter will probably not be risked. Still out though, are Coquelin (hamstring), Mertesacker (ankle), Frimpong (knee), and Wilshere (ankle) all of which have been long term absentees. Diaby is back in training but surely will not be risked so soon after returning for what seems like the millionth time this year.
The confirmed team for today is:
Szczesny
Sagna Djourou Vermaelen Santos
Arteta Song
Rosicky
Walcott Benayoun
RVP
Again the main area of contention would have to again be the attacking left sided player. Benayoun has slotted in with relative success in the last two games but I just feel that in a home game against a team that are not just going to sit back we would benefit from having the pace and directness of Chamberlain.
Santos is going to continue at left back despite a far less than average performance last time out. He looked defensively suspect throughout and I for one hope he is much improved. It is a shame because he is so likeable and has much finesse when going forward which is delightful to see.
Anyway I look forward to another performance full of hard work, determination, grit and lest not forget; goals.
Come on you Gunners!
GoonerVerse.
The biggest concern for Arsenal is Djourou, we must consider the position he is at as if it is a vacant some one has to remind him that it is ok to kick the ball out to side and give a throw to the oponent than creating a dangerous situation in the penalty box. God help us all.
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