Mikel Arteta could not have got a worse start to this crucial season in his Arsenal career, after a Covid outbreak decimated the squad and he had to play a weakened team against Brentford.
It was a nightmare for Arteta but a fairytale start to Brentford’s Premier League adventures.
But now we have an even harder test against the European Champions Chelsea and Arteta discusses whether any of our Covid positive players may return, and whether Saka may be fit enough to play the whole 90 minutes.
The boss also talks about our new signings Aaron Ramsdale and Martin Odegaard, although neither are likely to be in the squad tomorrow.
But Arteta won’t be looking for excuses and with his excellent record against Chelsea, and with the Emirates nearly full for the first time in over a year, he is hoping that the 12th man will cheer the Gunners to yet another unexpected vistory over our star-studded local rivals…
Watch his press conference here…
A win will be hard to come by, so really I’m just looking for improvement in play.
1. Will we press them, be more physical, or sit back and let them progress through the midfield.
2. Will Arteta park the bus, or show a pair and come out and play with teeth.
3. Will Arteta be more direct and quicken our play, or more possession without purpose; side and back passing.
4. Will we have different plans of attack, or just more of endless crosses from the left and an isolated double teamed Pepe hoping for bit of magic?
Personally I’m looking for improvement in play on both sides, and Arteta changing up what didn’t work.
As long as we’re not played off the pitch, and the players and manager show some grit and creativity, it will be something to build on at least.
Otherwise, more of the same and Arteta and the players will earn the torches and pitchforks.
A leopard can’t change its spots, Duran.
Ditto Durand