Premier League football returns to North London this weekend with Arsenal’s London derby against West Ham United, where the Gunners will be eying a perfect start to the new season; with three important points and the first of many victories.
The Hammers travel to face Arsenal on the back of a poor record against them, with Arsene Wenger’s side enjoying plenty of success of West Ham in recent years. Arsenal will be favourites to continue that record and West Ham will have to go up against all the odds.
Key Men
Arsenal: Mesut Ozil
The German playmaker is likely to be the key to Arsenal’s attack throughout the season and this game is no exception, especially with the Gunners still unsure as to the best approach at the spearhead of the attack. Whilst many believe Arsenal won’t win the Premier League without a world-class striker, it’s probably not the case- as with a thriving and in-form Ozil Arsenal could probably win the league with Nicklas Bendtner.
West Ham: Dimitri Payet
Said to be too good for West Ham, Payet’s stint in East London could be short-term but the Hammers will benefit vastly from the 28-year-old Frenchman. His excellence in Marseille made him hot property and the Hammers pulled off a major coup this summer with his addition.
Likely Approach
It’s highly likely that we’ll see a different approach to Arsenal than the side we witnessed last week, when the Gunners were conservative against Chelsea in the Community Shield. Here, Arsenal will be more attacking and should score more goals, in front of an excited capacity crowd.
The Hammers, like many visiting the Emirates, will sit back and look to hit Arsenal on the counter- which is something Arsene Wenger’s side have struggled to cope with in recent years. The lack of a established centre-forward will hurt their chances though, so they shouldn’t post too much of a threat.
Prediction
Arsenal 3-0 West Ham
Arsenal will boast too much in attack and will keep their heads in defence. Expect a few goals in the first-half, before finishing the job after the break- but probably taking their foot off the gas towards the end once the job has done.