Arsene Wenger is starting to sense he has the chance to pick up major silverware for the first time in years with the Premier league in his sights, whilst gianfranco Zola may be pleased with his side’s movement away from the drop zone, but he won’t feel like he is out of the woods just yet.
Arsenal have had a superb second half of the season so far and they currently lie top of the league’s form table. They are also third in the league proper, just two points behind leaders Man United, and Level on points with Chelsea. If they can continue their upward trajectory then you would have to say that they have a great chance of success this year. They of course continue to deal with set backs such as the long term injuries of Aaron Ramsey and Robin Van Persie, but it has to be said that the squad is strong throughout and they haven’t missed these two players. Arsene would expect to win this one, and with West Ham seemingly out of danger yet with little to chase above them, you would think the result to be a foregone conclusion.
Of course, Zola would have something to say about this and he will expect his players to work hard to continue moving up the table. This works in theory but theirs has been a stuttering season without form at any point. Injuries are minor with Noble the only established long term absentee, but the niggling injuries that have affected many of their players over the season continues to mean that they lack fluidity in their play. I expect to see a passionate Zola attempting to engage his troops from the sidelines, but effort alone won’t win you football matches like this.
Verdict: Arsenal Home Win
Odds: 2/9
Bookmaker: William Hill
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