This is Arsenal’s worst season since the the early 90s. They only have six wins in their first 22 matches and top four is all but out of sight. The remainder of this season is more about performances than results. It will be about adapting to Mikel Arteta’s system and showing that they can play the way he wants, even if it may not immediately get results.
Sheffield United are enjoying a dream first season in the Premier League. Their 32 points leave them sixth, only two points behind Manchester United. The Blades will be hoping to end the season in the European places, which would have seemed crazy in August. They already beat Arsenal at Bramall Lane, now they get their chance at Emirates Stadium.
Team News
Arsenal will be without Calum Chambers and Kieran Tierney through long-term injuries, while Lucas Torreira, Hector Bellerin and Sead Kolasinac will undergo late fitness tests, according to PremierInjuries.com. Star Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang will also miss out as he serves his red card suspension.
The Blades may have a full squad, as it looks like Simon Moore and Michael Verrips are expected to be fit, according to PremierInjuries.com.
Key Players
Arsenal: Nicolas Pepe
Pepe has struggled to get his Arsenal career going. He’s scored only two non-penalty goal and hasn’t created at a super high level either, with only three assists. He has proven himself as an incredible dribbler. His 5.1 successful dribbles per 90 minutes is fifth most in the league among player with at least 500 minutes. His dribbling ability has made him a great ball progresser. He’ll need to be more than that to live up to his £72m price tag, but it’s enough to make him an important cog in this team.
Sheffield United: Lys Mousset
Mousset was one of Sheffield United’s few big money signings this summer. He has repaid their faith with a team high five goals and tied for a team high three assists. He was on target fir the only goal in the Blades victory over the Gunners in October and will hope to repeat that.
Prediction
Sheffield United’s success has been built off of a strong defence. It’s hard to see many goals being scored, especially with the absence of Aubameyang.
Prediction: 1-1 Draw
