The start of the so called ‘Fear Of February’ sees us face a Crystal Palace side fresh from their midweek win at the disposal of Hull. Arsenal,however dropped crucial points at Southampton on Tuesday night leaving them 2nd in the table on 52 points.
CRYSTAL PALACE
Amid the poor start to the season under Ian Holloway, Crystal Palace have found some rhythm under Tony Pulis,whom has never been relegated. Their last domestic defeat came on the other side of North London, a game in which they dominated the first half but the end product was truly lacking. But the deadline day signings of Tom Ince,Scott Dann and Joe Ledley have reassured some depth within the squad.
THE GUNNERS
Arsenal though,have lost just once at home this season domestically and will be looking to keep the pressure on leaders Manchester City,who face Chelsea on Monday. With Mesut Özil starting to find his path at Arsenal,you’d think his presence will only improve the team. Santi Cazorla scored for the 3rd game running in midweek and it is really afflictive at he starts to find form as we will only improve with our riches in midfield.
Arsène Wenger’s decision to sign only one player may prove costly due to the injuries of Aaron Ramsey and Jack Wilshere,the suspension of Mathieu Flamini will also create a even larger hole in the midfield area. The signing of Kim Källström will hopefully add some experience and extra quality to the midfield following the loss of the midfield trio. The victory at Selhurst Park back in October was followed by a 2-0 victory against Liverpool,we face a stern test against them next weekend and how we would love to expand the gap between the two teams at the top.
TEAM NEWS
Wayne Hennesey signed in time to face Arsenal and will go straight into the side while Joe Ledley,Thomas Ince and Scott Dann were too late on deadline day. Jerome Thomas,Jonathan Parr and Kagisho Dikgacoi all remain destined to be out injured.
Mathieu Flamini begins the first of a 3 match ban,while Tomas Rosicky returns following surgery on his broken nose. Aaron Ramsey will be out after his injury setback and the game will come just a little bit too soon for Jack Wilshere.
