 |
| Brighton wants to go back to Europe, they must win here to give themselves a chance however, they must face a rampaging Arsenal at the Amex to achieve their dreams. (Photo credit: Sky Sports) |
The run-in is well underway, with the Gunners hoping to see it till the end after falling short by five points last season.
Brighton’s season has been a little underwhelming; a win over the Gunners at the Amex could take the Seagulls to seventh, which would guarantee a return to Europe as things stand, but that also depends on the surrounding results.
Brighton’s European journey has come to an end, and that could be of great help to their run-in as they hope to return to continental competition next season. Every game from here on is important for any team that has dreams this season.
Mikel Arteta was vocal about how difficult it is to find results this season; “it is hard; everyone has to suffer to get a win,” the Spaniard said in his press conference ahead of the trip to Brighton. Arsenal knows what to do; they cannot afford to drop points.
With Liverpool playing Manchester United on Sunday, Arsenal could go top if they beat Brighton, regardless of whatever happens at Selhurst earlier in the day. It’s an opportunity the Gunners cannot afford to pass on.
How will they line up? Brighton will set up to compete as usual; the form of Danny Welbeck could trouble the Gunners, with youngsters like Evan Ferguson and Joao Pedro also good options for Roberto Di Zerbi to call on.
Mikel Arteta made a host of changes against Luton Town; his much-changed side made light work of the Hatters, and you expect the Gunners to restore some important names to the starting eleven. Expect the likes of Declan Rice and Bukayo Saka to return.
Thomas Partey looks sharp and ready to go. He was great in the game against Luton, and he will be of help to the Gunners on the run-in. Jurien Timber is the only one unavailable for the Gunners for the game against Brighton; a fit squad could be of great help to Arteta’s cause.
Brighton has a few names on the treatment table: Solly March and Kaoru Mitoma are out for the rest of the season, and Di Zerbi wants on-loan midfielder Ansu Fathi to prove himself a little more. Simon Adingra is flying on the wings; Ben White must pay attention to him.
If Arsenal wants to win the title, they must do it the hard way. Winning away at Brighton, where they won 4-2 last season, should be their priority, as they can only beat what is in front of them. Bayern Munich lies in wait in midweek; their focus should be on the Seagulls.