Arsenal’s disappointing setback away at Stoke City has provoked many Gunner supporters to question Arsene Wenger’s lack of movement in the transfer window for a striker.

Olivier Giroud took much of the criticism as Jonathan Walter’s penalty was enough to give the Midlands side all 3 points at the Britannia, with the Frenchman’s brace against Sunderland being his only goals in the last 5.

The last striker that Wenger bought, Yaya Sanogo, was also on show briefly for Arsenal – and blazed the last chance over the bar from 8 yards.

The weekend is round the corner which means it’s time for the weekend preview.

Arsenal defender Thomas Vermaelen returns and could start at left back especially if Kieran Gibbs and Nacho Monreal are not fit.

Mesut Ӧzil is also expected to return to the starting line-up after missing last week’s game.

The players view

Tomas Rosicky gave his thoughts on the upcoming match on Arsenal player and had much to say with him saying:

With the Champions League first rounds all done and dusted, the focus goes back to the English Premier League.

Arsenal will be making the trip down to Stoke which will not be an easy game as they have faced many difficult times at the Britannia Stadium in the past.

The Arsenal squad however is said to be without Nacho Monreal and Kieran Gibbs as both players seem to be a doubt, therefore leaving the left back position open to returning player and club captain Thomas Vermaelen.

As we start to look ahead to the Stoke City match the main question which is being asked is whose fit.

Quick Recovery

Jeff Weston tweeted:

“In response - Kieran Gibbs #Arsenal does not have a long term hamstring injury & could possibly be available this Saturday"

News broke today that Alvaro Morata of Real Madrid may be joining Arsenal in a permanent transfer deal.  Morata was linked with Arsenal all the way through January for a loan move to create competition up front but it now looks like a permanent deal could happen in the summer.

The Spanish View

The story broke this afternoon on Bleacher Report in Guillem Balague’s column.  However, he was quick to point out that the fee had not been agreed but Morata is keen on joining Arsenal.

This is what Balague had to say on twitter “Morata has agreed to join Arsenal IF, I repeat IF, I insist IF, clubs agree fee. He will push for Madrid to accept Arsenal's offer”