Prediction: Southampton vs Arsenal

Prediction: Arsenal win

Best Odds: 19/20

Bookmaker: bet365

The Premier League is back once again this weekend, featuring some intriguing action as we’ve all come to expect from one of Europe’s top divisions. One game that particularly intrigues us is Southampton vs Arsenal, as the two teams, both of whom are in very different positions, attempt to register what would be a huge three points for either side. On one hand you’ve got the Saints who are attempting to steer clear of the relegation zone, and then you’ve got Arsenal who want to cement their return to the Champions League.

Southampton

A new manager, a new attitude. Southampton desperately required a change of pace, and now that Mark Hughes is gone, they can focus on rebuilding for the future. Given their current situation it would seem as if their best course of action would be to gut it out in these next few games, before looking at a major overhaul in the January transfer window. That sounds a little bit drastic, but there are clearly some big issues within the core of this squad that need to be addressed sooner rather than later.

Team News

Bertrand is a doubt through injury with Shane Long definitely being ruled out, whereas the likes of Romeu will attempt to make an impact under the new boss as he’s expected to start.

Arsenal

Arsenal Football Club are flying high and there’s really no other way to put it. Unai Emery has been instrumental in creating this incredible unbeaten run, which has seen them overcome the odds in many of their encounters. There’s still a lot of work to be done if they want to secure their place in the top four, because the standard at the top of the division this year is even more competitive than usual. They’ve got the squad necessary to do it, but they just need to maintain their consistency – and hopefully, avoid any big injuries.

Team News

Laurent Koscielny will almost certainly make his Premier League return in this one, as Arsenal continue to suffer from absences at the back.

Factors to Consider

• The game will be played at Southampton’s St. Mary’s Stadium.
• Southampton have drawn three and lost three of their last six games.
• Arsenal have won five and drawn one of their last six games.
• Arsenal lead 49-20 in the overall head to head standings, with 26 draws.
• In their last meeting back in April, Arsenal beat Southampton 3-2.

Conclusion

Southampton are still adjusting to life with Ralph Hasenhuttl, and while he certainly seems and feels like the right man for the job, that doesn’t necessarily mean they’ll have enough to overcome Arsenal. The Gunners are in the best form they’ve been in for the better part of a decade, and we can see them coming away with the three points here. We think the Saints will push the all the way and they may even take the lead, but in the end, the Gunners’ fantastic fire power in front of goal will see them through.

Prediction: Arsenal win

Best Odds: 19/20

Bookmaker: bet365