Arsenal welcome Southampton to the Emirates on Tuesday evening in their 24th game of the season, as part of the Premier League’s set of weekday fixtures.
The Gunners badly need a win. Despite overcoming Burnley by a score of 2-1 last Saturday, Arsenal haven’t won in their last three games in the league. Whilst thrilling attacking play was hampered by defensive shortcomings at Anfield, Arsène Wenger’s men also produced lacklustre and blunt-edged performances at the Britannia and at home to Chelsea – where they lost last week in what was a particularly demoralising defeat. As Arsenal approach these last few months of what was meant to be “their” season, all these chances to put distance between them and their rivals have been missed – which may very well end up biting Arsenal in the back come May. The Gunners remain in a strong position though to win a first title since 2004 – however a league win is sorely needed to keep this aim alive.
However, the players did restore a bit of cheer to the Emirates faithful with their 2-1 win over Burnley in the FA Cup, furthering their cup run. This team largely filled with second-string players gave a promising performance in which Calum Chambers and the returning Alexis Sanchez scored – with both of those names along with Alex Iwobi playing well, giving the manager food for thought. With the FA Cup draw churning out a home tie against Hull (a third time these two have faced in the FA Cup in the last three seasons), it’s looking more and more likely that the Gunners will go to Wembley once more.
The opposition were knocked out of the FA Cup in the third round earlier last month, so it’s been a while since Southampton last played. Ronald Koeman has turned around a season which was looking to be a below-par, bottom-ten finish in the last month or two, pulling the Saints to a respectable 8th and just four points off a Europa League spot. The team from the south coast have been in great form, having won all of their last three matches – against the likes of Manchester United and Watford – whilst not conceding at all. Two weeks ago, Southampton went to Old Trafford where debutant Charlie Austin – brought in to help out an otherwise struggling attacking department – scored a late winner. Koeman’s men were in control for the whole game, only allowing United one shot on target altogether. This team definitely have the incentive and form in order to defeat Arsenal tonight, and this combined with a high morale at St. Mary’s means that Arsenal surely will be given a run for their money in this match.
A player Southampton want to watch out for is Alexis. The Chilean made his return to the starting XI after a lengthy spell out with the winner against Burnley. The winger will be charged up and ready to make an instant impact on his first league appearance. In a weekday game where some players will be lacking concentration, his burst of energy will be much appreciated.
A player Arsenal need to watch out for is Austin. The Englishman scored both times he played against Arsenal for QPR, and scored against Manchester United on his debut. Clearly a prolific player, he provides a much-needed focal point for the Saints’ midfield creativity.
The last time these two played, Southampton thrashed the Gunners by a frankly humiliating scoreline of 4-0. The away side failed to offer much threat at all despite a number of the Saints’ goals being disputed, and as a result they crumbled disappointingly. It would be a surprise to see such an event happen again – expect Arsenal to be the side with the advantage tonight.
Match facts
– Arsenal are unbeaten in 20 league matches at home to Southampton.
– Southampton could register three successive league wins against Arsenal for the first time since 1968.
– Arsene Wenger has only beaten Ronald Koeman twice in 10 attempts as Arsenal manager (Drawn four, lost four)
– They only allowed their opponents a combined three shots on target in their four league games in January.
– The Gunners have failed to score in consecutive league games for the first time since August 2012.
– Southampton have scored a league-high 10 headed goals in the Premier League this season.
Team news
Jack Wilshere and Santi Cazorla remain injured, and unfortunately fans’ favourite Tomas Rosicky on his return from injury last Saturday picked up a serious injury during his cameo. Reports suggest he could be out for the rest of the season. Alexis Sanchez is due to make his first league appearance since coming back from injury. Per Mertesacker comes back from suspension.
Graziano Pelle and Steven Davis are both doubts for this fixture.
Predicted XIs
Arsenal (4-2-3-1): Cech; Bellerin, Mertesacker, Koscielny, Monreal; Ramsey, Coquelin; Campbell, Özil, Alexis; Giroud.
Southampton (4-2-3-1): Forster; Cedric, van Dijk, Fonte, Bertrand; Wanyama, Clasie; Ward-Prowse, Mané, Tadic; Austin.
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