Can Arsenal’s overworked stars produce again at United?
After back to back wins against both Liverpool and Borussia Dortmund in the Premier League and Champions League respectively, the memories of that sorry night against Chelsea in the Capital One Cup have long since faded. Arsenal have performed to the same impressive standard over the course of the tough three week period which we have had, enduring two defeats which both seem not to matter anymore.
Next up and the last game of the test for Arsenal comes away to Manchester United this Sunday. The game which is being played at the home of United, Old Trafford, is highly anticipated as being the biggest game for Arsenal so far and so a win in this game will be extremely important. Borussia Dortmund was important because we needed to win to reclaim first place in the group, Liverpool was important because it was building the 5 point gap and the rival game with Spurs was also vital for obvious reasons, however if we manage to beat Manchester United on Sunday, not only will it extend our lead at the top of the table whilst knocking possible title rivals further back in their chase but it will also signify Arsenal’s ability to finally beat the big teams.
It’s been a constant issue over the last few years and surely one that has knocked back our chances of success. It’s directly linked towards the attitude of being confident and believing in ourselves, however ahead of this fixture, Arsenal should be confident of going to Old Trafford and getting all 3 points, not because they have had a poor start to the season but because we now have the capabilities to outdo them in almost every aspect.
With no new injury news, you could suggest Arsenal will line up with a similar team to Dortmund and Liverpool, however with the player’s clearly tiring, I think Wenger may be forced into changes. The defence is likely to remain the same with such a strong partnership between Mertesacker and Koscielny. The midfield is arguably our strongest area and it would be brilliant to have a full strength side deployed here but for some reason I think some players will be lacking fitness to play.
In attack again Giroud may be lacking fitness but with only Bendtner as a backup, Giroud may just have to pull through. If we could welcome back Wilshere and Walcott for this game then that would surely boost our chances even further!
We should certainly be full of confidence and optimism however I still personally think its going to be a very tough fixture full of a few surprises.
