Prediction: Arsenal vs Watford

Prediction: Arsenal win

Best Odds: 9/20

Bookmaker: bet365

The Premier League returns once again after a busy midweek period courtesy of the League Cup, and it feels like every single team in the division is ready to go. One of the most intriguing encounters this weekend will come at the Emirates when Arsenal host Watford, in a game that could have massive implications for the season ahead. The Gunners are attempting to keep their recent hot streak going, whereas Watford are trying to rediscover the form that left them residing in the top four just a few weeks ago.

Arsenal

People were sceptical as to whether or not Unai Emery would be able to produce the goods in North London, but considering he lost his opening two games against Chelsea and Manchester City, we’d say he’s faring pretty well as the Gunners are currently riding an impressive winning streak. The Spaniard has installed a new sense of belief in the fanbase, and while there are still a few doubters, an emphatic performance against Watford could be enough to really shut them all up.

Team News

Henrikh Mkhitaryan and Sokratis Papastathopolous both face a race to be fit in time for the game.

Watford

The wheels were bound to come off for Watford eventually, and while that may be a harsh thing to say, they’ve certainly looked like a different team in the last few weeks compared to the one that set the pace against the likes of Tottenham Hotspur and Crystal Palace. The Hornets have a strong belief in their squad that they can beat anyone on any given day, and that’s the kind of team that usually frightens Arsenal. If they can play their own game and block out the noise at the Emirates, they could have a very successful day at the office.

Team News

Gerard Deulofeu and Tom Cleverley will be hoping they can return from injury in this one, with Christian Kabasele being out with a suspension.

Factors to Consider

• The game will be played at Arsenal’s Emirates Stadium.
• Arsenal lead the overall head to head standings, but only narrowly at 15-12 with just one draw.
• Watford have won three of their last six against the Gunners, with the last meeting finishing 3-0 to Arsenal.
• Arsenal have won their last six games in all competitions.
• Watford haven’t won in their last three in all competitions with a loss and two draws.

Conclusion

There are a lot of interesting things to think about when you’re talking about this fight, but when it comes down to it, this is going to be a war where we find out which side has that little bit extra stamina necessary to take them through to the finish line. Alas, while we think it’s going to be incredibly entertaining, that probably won’t show when it comes to the scoreline – because we believe Arsenal are going to win 1-0. It’s going to be incredibly scrappy but if they can pull it off, it’ll be a huge result for their season.

Prediction: Arsenal win

Best Odds: 9/20

Bookmaker: bet365