Even though Arsenal would normally expect to beat our next Premier League opponents Watford, or at least be fairly confident about it even though it is an away game, we would still expect Arsene Wenger to prepare for the match with some degree of caution in his tactics, rather than sending the players out with the intent of all out attack.
I am not sure that he can afford to do that this time though, because a draw will simply not be good enough for Arsenal to take into the first international break of the season. It is a bit unlucky for us the way that the early fixtures have fallen, but with Man United facing Hull City next week, Chelsea at home to Burnley and Man City going to West Ham, I think we can expect at least two of our big three rivals to head into the break on maximum points.
So if Arsenal only get a point we will be seven points adrift already, not to mention the fact that we would be yet to win an EPL match this season. That is why I think the manager needs to take risks in his team selection and go heavy on the creative and attacking side of things.
For me that would mean starting with both Ozil and Cazorla behind a front three of Alexis Sanchez, Walcott and Giroud, while giving licence to Bellerin and Monreal to get forward or maybe even starting with Kieran Gibbs on the left.
This is no time to be cautious because needs must and Arsenal cannot afford to be seven points behind our rivals at this early stage. But will the Gunners come out firing against the Hornets or will the disappointing start to the season continue?
Bob.