Arsenal to do the double over United
10 points and seven places separate Arsenal and Manchester United in the Premier League table at the time of writing, but where it felt as though both sides had upward momentum within their ranks as recently as last weekend, the Red Devils threw that away in spectacular fashion by succumbing to defeat against lowly Sheffield United at Old Trafford, with the Blades' second goal coming courtesy of some of the worst defending on display by any team at any level of football in 2020/2021. On the other hand, the Gunners have tightened up considerably this calendar year, and will fancy their chances of doing the double over Ole Gunnar Solskjær's streaky outfit. Read our preview here:
Boom, Saka, Laca
The Gunners exacted revenge on Southampton for being dumped out of the FA Cup fourth road by them last weekend by rallying from going behind in the third minute to running out 3-1 winners. As ever this season, it was one of the younger players that had a starring role in the comeback - the versatile Bukayo Saka underlining his increasing importance to Mikel Arteta and his plans with a goal and an assist, the latter of which was for Alex Lacazette. It's fair to say that the French striker hasn't always been at his best this season, but in the absence of Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang through injury, he is finding more unoccupied space with which to work in. He and his manager will both be hoping Emile Smith-Rowe can shake off the knock that forced off the youngster during the midweek victory, as he is exactly what the north London giants have been missing creatively this term. Equally, Thomas Partey should take part from the outset, and that will be another timely boost. With his inclusion, there's suddenly a far better balance in midfield, and that could spell trouble for United.
To be frank, Bruno
Undoubtedly, the Red Devils' standout performer this year has been playmaker Bruno Fernandes. Whilst other big names have come in and out of form (like Paul Pogba and Marcus Rashford), he has been the one player that fans and management alike have truly been able to rely upon to not only perform well, but at times drive the whole team forwards by himself. That total reliance has been a help and, very rarely, a hindrance. In midweek, on one of the few occasions he wasn't able to conjure up a bit of magic, it affected the whole team, but there were far worse displays on the night. Not only were the whole defence statuesque, but Anthony Martial also looked totally off-colour. It would be a huge surprise if he retained his place, and it's far more likely Edinson Cavani will lead the line instead. 'El Matador' ought to still have the beating of an improved Arsenal backline, but will need a good deal of support from his teammates to keep the pressure on.
Will the real Arsenal and United please stand up?
Even when United were temporarily leading the league (as the eighth team at the time to do so), there was a prevailing feeling that they hadn't reached the summit by playing consistently superb football, or really blowing away their opponents. Many of their victories have been from behind, and whilst there's something admirable about coming from behind to win on a regular basis, it's hard to maintain. At the Emirates, they'll come up against a new and improved Arsenal who have already beaten them once this year. A second time isn't out of the possibility, but more likely is a good number of goals for neutrals to enjoy. betway are offering odds of 2.88 for over 3.5 goals on Saturday evening.
