Arsenal take on Crystal Palace at the Emirates Stadium in a tie that could be massive in the top four race. The Gunners currently sit fourth in the table, a point behind bitter rivals Tottenham Hotspur and just ahead of Chelsea on goal difference.
With the Spurs failing to get a result at the Etihad Stadium, a win for the home side would see them jump to third. The Emirates club’s home form in the Premier League this season has been a sight to behold, a definition of consistency as they have now won 14 out of 17.
Even though the Eagles seems to be safe from relegation, Arsenal will have to be aware of their threat going forward with a possible frontline of Townsend, Wilfried Zaha and Christian Benteke.
Crystal Palace’s away record is really impressive and they are the only team in the Premier League to have won more away games than at home. They are the only club to have won at Manchester City this season and they are not a group to be underrated.
The first leg of this fixture saw Crystal Palace grab a late equalizer from the penalty spot after Granit Xhaka fouled Zaha in the penalty area. On the day, the game was chaotic, the Gunners were sloppy and they consequently paid for their slackness. The home fans will be hoping their team avoids a repeat which could be detrimental to their top four chances.
Unai Emery seems to have found a fix to his side’s defensive vulnerabilities as they have now managed to keep six clean sheets in the last seven games. However, Roy Hodgson’s men will be a tricky task given the menace they pose particularly on counter attacks. The North London club will be without Sokratis -who is suspended.
This is a huge loss as the Greek has been a rock at the back. Whoever the manager selects to partner Laurent Koscielny at the heart of the defence should rise to the occasion to make the Greek’s absence trivial. Ramsey’s injury against Napoli is a big blow given his recent terrific performances. The timing for his hamstring is brutal as the Gunners prepare for a season-defining period.
All the upcoming matches are critical for success in both the Europa League and the quest for a Champions League spot next season. Despite playing during the midweek, Emery is expected to field a strong side as any frailties in selection might prove costly to their Premier League objective.
