Some good news for us Gooners, as City are still searching for their first win at the Emirates in the league for 38 years, 27 league matches.
Their last victory came on 4th October 1975 when City condemned us to a 3-2 defeat at Highbury in the old Division One.
City also haven’t hit the back of the net for 5 league games at Arsenal, their last goal scored by DaMarcus Beasley in 2007.
Meanwhile, Arsenal have unbeaten in our last 5 league games, winning 4 and drawing one whilst scoring 17 goals in our last 5 home games. We now have scored 40 goals so far, more than last season at this stage. We have also won our last 5 league games that we have had the lead at half time.
However, City have conceded the least goals this season with a mere 19, but Arsenal have only conceded 22, the 4th least in the league. The last 5 games between the two clubs, home and way, in all competitions have resulted in one draw, one Arsenal win and 3 wins for City.
Team News
For once, injuries and absences seem to be in Arsenal’s favour, as we have virtually our whole squad available. Giroud faces a late battle to be fit, after suffering a small knock against Swansea last weekend.
And Diaby is also a doubt after making his first comeback to competitive football in a reserve fixture midweek after 3 months on the sidelines. We have not seen the tenacious French midfielder since he damaged his hip taking a shot against Chelsea on the 29th September but since then has suffered thigh problems as well.
However, these two are the only major players that will be missing and there is still a chance they will play, however I expect to see them start the clash on the bench.
City, fortunately for us, are a bit unluckier, missing 7 key players for this tie. Main striker Sergio Aguero misses this clash through injury, as do right backs Richards and Maicon, whilst Kolarov is a doubt.
A huge blow for City is that their pivotal midfielder Yaya Toure misses the game as he is representing Ivory Coast at the African Cup of Nations. His brother and ex-Arsenal defender Kolo Toure will also be away on international duty alongside him.
Another absence will come as mixed news to the fans as another ex-Gunner, although a bit more unpopular than Toure misses out on a return to the Emirates. Samir Nasri is suspended for the clash after head butting Sebastian Bassong in City’s 1-0 victory over Norwich.
Predicted line-up
Szczesny; Sagna, Vermaelen Mertesacker Gibbs, Wilshere Arteta, Chamberlain Cazorla Podolski; Walcott
Referee
Mike Dean
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