South Coast NYE entertainment
Brighton and Hove Albion take on Arsenal at The Amex Community Stadium on New Year’s Eve.
The Seagulls took their frustration out from their penalty shoot-out cup defeat to Charlton Athletic on Southampton on Boxing Day, running out comfortable 3-1 winners on the South Coast.
However, Saturday’s opponents should provide a firmer test, with the league leaders arriving and aiming to maintain their five-point cushion on second-placed Manchester City.
The Gunners will be without key man Gabriel Jesus, with Eddie Nketiah set to lead the line after finding the net in their 3-1 win over West Ham United on Boxing Day.
Process
Brighton have become even more attacking than they already were under Roberto De Zerbi.
Still building from the back but being a little more adventurous in possession than they were with Graham Potter at the helm.
It has been entertaining viewing, but the Gunners’ high press will make it more difficult for the Seagulls to play out, with Mikel Arteta’s well drilled mobile forwards proving a lot to handle in the first half of this season.
Brighton are creating chances at 1.79 expected goals (xG) for per game this term, which is extremely healthy, but a way off Arsenal at 2.03.
Despite the Gunners’ brilliant defensive process, with the form the Seagulls are in, this match-up is pointing towards a goals-based angle.
Arsenal may even be able to cover an over 2.5 goals punt on their own if Brighton are not on their guard at the back, and De Zerbi’s men will be confident of breaching the North Londoners’ rearguard.
Adam Webster and Jakub Moder will miss out through injury, Danny Welbeck is doubtful and Moises Caicedo is unavailable through suspension.
As for the Gunners, Emile Smith Rowe and Reiss Nelson are likely to miss out, while Takehiro Tomiyasu is a doubt along with Jesus who is expected to return in February.
Goals?
Brighton have only lost once in the last five times they have hosted Arsenal, and will be fired up by their lofty league position.
Brighton have scored in six of ten.
Brighton have conceded in eight of ten.
Brighton have seen both teams score in six of ten.
Brighton have seen over 2.5 goals in six of ten.
Arsenal have scored in nine of ten.
Arsenal have conceded in four of ten.
Arsenal have seen both teams score in three of ten.
Arsenal have seen over 2.5 goals in three of ten.
Post bet chat Marcus's Tips:
4-2 Arsenal, comfortable winner.