This weekend sees the infamous clash return – Arsenal vs Chelsea. In times gone by this tie has been fuelled with passion, aggression, tension and has seen its fair share of red cards. Without Jose Mourinho in the fold, there is less animosity between the two London sides; but that is not to say it won’t be spicy. The Gunners and Chelsea go into the game level on points in 4th and 5th respectively and will be looking to get the one-up on each other.
Arsenal have traditionally struggled to get positive results against the West London side – last season they couldn’t manage a goal against them, despite Chelsea’s woeful league form. The boys from the bridge are experts at stifling Wenger’s men; closing down the spaces between the lines of midfield and defence, cutting out Arsenal’s creative midfielders. They force the Gunners wide and Terry and Cahill take care of any meek crosses that make their way into the box.
If Arsenal are to break this unfortunate trend they will need their big guns on form. Ozil, Sanchez and the like will need to be on top of their game. Chelsea will be looking to utilise their pace on the counterattack. Hazard and Costa remain in excellent form and will be licking their lips at the prospect of Arsenal’s high line.
On the subject of either sides elite performers, let’s dive in to this weeks combined XI:
