Arsenal are set to try and extend their unbeaten run to 23 at Southampton this afternoon and with our opponents languishing in the relegation zone it seems like an easy task. But Southampton are hoping that their new coach, Ralph Hasenhuttl, can give the team a boost and help them to their first home win of the season. So far their record at St Marys this season has not been impressive, but the fact that they’ve drawn 4 of their 6 home games may give them hope of salvaging a point at least, but the fact is that they have only won one home match this year, and that was back in April. I don’t think they would be unhappy with one point right now.
But Emery will be looking for another win to add to their 4 away victories already achieved this season, although he has to worry about his defensive injuries and suspensions today. To be fair the back line has not really looked solid all season, no matter who plays. Our 1-0 win over Huddersfield last week was our first clean sheet in 9 league games but at least we usually manage to score more than our opponents. The new Saints boss is very wary of our top scorer Aubameyang, who has scored against his teams 6 times in the Bundesliga. “He has a lot of qualities and therefore we have to work as a team,” Hasenhuttl said of Aubameyang.
“It will depend how much pressure (we put) on guys that want to pass to him.
“Maybe don’t give too much time to these guys to put the perfect pass then it’s easier to defend his qualities – his speed, his heading in the box.
“That is our goal to defend him and the rest of the team. But he doesn’t need a lot of chances to score, as everyone knows.”
But will he even start the match? I think it is very likely after Lacazette was played on Thursday and with Ozil and Ramsey now fit again I think the German will be lining up at the start.The defence is more problematic with Mustafi and Sokratis banned, but I can see Koscielny and Monreal in the centre of the back four.
So here is my predicted line-up….
Leno
Bellerin Koscielny Monreal Kolasinac
Xhaka Torreira
Iwobi Ozil Ramsey
Aubameyang
It may not be our very best team but should be more than enough to deal with the Saints.
I’m going for a 3-1 to Arsenal. What do you think?
Admin
A lot of rumours that 6’-5” Medley might start at centrehalf today.
He gave his initiation song, Auba posted it online, so he’ll either play or he’ll be on the bench. I’d like to get a look at him in a competitive game, but these points are super valuable, nervy.
Come on boys!
I like the defensive line a lot oddly (Mustafi, Holding and Sokratis all being out)
Plenty of experience and I think these are our top 4 defenders
On reading the info on the net regarding Ralph Hasenhuttl, I think Southampton have made a good choice.
There will be a good home atmosphere full of hope and belief.
The Southampton players will be out to prove to their manager and fans that they can beat Arsenal.
I think it will be an exciting game I wish I could be there.
COYG