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:

“[I‘m expecting] a typical game when you go to Stoke. It's always very similar - they are a very physical side, very aggressive and it’s a very tough place to go,”

Rosicky continued to talk about matching Stoke:

“What I'm thinking about is [what performance] we will produce on the pitch and if we will be as aggressive and strong as Stoke. If we do that, we can beat them.”

Rosicky also spoke about his desire to try and get into the box but know he has to be responsible to make sure the team is balanced and confirmed this by saying:

“I'm always making sure that the balance of the team on the pitch is right and I will do that all the time because the only thing that matters for me is that the team wins.”

Thoughts

I expect it to be a tough game against Stoke and it always is which is reflected in Arsenals record by only winning 1 in 6 away from home.

However, if we can show our aggressive side then we can easily win and I would fully expect us to do this. Flamini and Giroud are the key players; Flamini because he needs to get everyone organised and has the bite but Giroud because he will be up against Shawcross and Huth.

If Arsenal are to win the league then they need to win these types of games.

Expected line up

Szczęsny, Sagna, Mertesacker, Koscielny, Vermaelen, Flamini, Wilshere, Oxlade-Chamberlain, Ӧzil, Cazorla, Giroud.

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