Arsenal welcome Southampton on Friday as they look to get their title challenge back on track after a coupe of disappointing draws, so let’s take a look at the latest team news.
The Gunners followed up the draw at Anfield by dropping two more points, this time at West Ham United. It would have left manager Mikel Arteta furious as it allows Manchester City to get back into the pole position. The team needs to stem the tide and they can start by beating the Saints.
As for the team news, William Saliba is the major injury doubt and there are doubts whether he will play again this season. The absence of the Frenchman has forced the north Londoners to slightly alter their style of play. Rob Holding will continue in the centre of defence as the injured defender waits on the side-lines.
Zinchenko will once again miss out due to a muscular injury. Mohamed Elneny is the only player who is out for a long time as others have returned to fitness. The return of Eddie Nketiah gives Arteta another option to work with and that can make the attack more dynamic.
Arsenal Fever View:
In both the draws Arsenal have had recently, they took a two-goal lead and then let it slip. This would have been the disheartening part of the games as you are trying to prevent a juggernaut like Manchester City from overtaking you.
A lot of this can be put down to a lack of concentration and some amount of complacency. This could have been avoided as far as the players are concerned and it will be something Arteta would want to have a look at.
This is clearly a squad that is capable of getting the results needed despite the absence of Saliba. Though they have had to tweak their style of play, they can definitely get wins when needed. And ahead of a crucial game against City, this Friday becomes a must-win fixture.
Arsenal at home haven’t been as defensively solid as they would liked. Given the stage of the season, this cannot be the case. A more focused performance is required to get over a team that is fighting for survival. Getting the three points can help the players be a little calmer ahead of facing City.
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