London calling: Chelsea vs Arsenal preview
Super Sunday’s early kick off takes us to Stamford Bridge in anticipation for Arsenal‘s arrival as they try and steady the rocking Arsene Wenger ship.
The Frenchman has come under scrutiny throughout the whole of this season because of the dodgy performances and lack of ruthlessness to secure points, but a win over London rivals Chelsea could provide a huge boost into the Arsenal dressing room.
Although the Gunners have won 3 of their last 5 league outings they sit in 6th place and remain an incredible 21 points adrift from Manchester United at the top of the table, sparking an intense reaction from supporters of the club.
Arsenal are still without Mikel Arteta (calf) and Gervinho who travelled to the Africa Cup of Nations but have the option to give Laurent Koscielny a place in the starting line up after a one-game suspension and have also been boosted by the news of Theo Walcott signing a new long-term deal.
Chelsea appear to be in a tricky situation after the appointment of Rafa Benitez – A man who is hated and constantly abused from the fans – and despite the likes of fan favourite Frank Lampard expected to leave the club when his contracts expires at the end of the season, added to the ongoing Fernando Torres saga, they still sit 3rd in the Premier League table, largely due to their impressive away form.
Since the chubby Spaniard took over as boss the Blues have won 6 of their 7 away games, but only 2 of their 7 at the Bridge.
Skipper John Terry could return to the squad after a lengthy injury but John Obi Mikel and Victor Moses are both representing their home nation Nigeria at the Cup of Nations.
Chelsea will be searching for revenge for the 5-3 victory that Arsenal claimed in their last visit to Stamford Bridge thanks to a hat-trick from Robin van Persie, but of course they will not have the Dutchman to aid them this time round.
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