Arsenal vs. Southampton: 3 Key Battles
Arsenal will be hopeful of a better performance in the Premier League as they take on Southampton at the Emirates. The last time the Gunners took on a side at home, they were defeated by Chelsea thanks to a Diego Costa goal. Arsenal though should see the return of Per Mertesacker, who served his one match ban in the win over Burnley during the FA Cup.
Southampton last played in the Premier League against Manchester United and recorded a famous 1-0 win at Old Trafford thanks to a late header from Charlie Austin, on his debut. The Saints have turned their season around with three consecutive wins as they look for a place in Europe.
Arsenal though will be looking to close the gap down on league leaders Leicester and a win over the Saints would give them a huge lift for the rest of the season. With Alexis Sanchez back to full fitness, he could be in line to make a start against the south coast team. We look ahead to an intriguing tie and share the three key battles for the game.
- Laurent Koscielny vs. Charlie Austin
Charlie Austin announced his entry into Premier League football with Southampton thanks to a textbook header than gave his side all three points against Manchester United. The forward was barely on for a few minutes before he struck the winner.
Laurent Koscielny will have his hands full in dealing with a striker that knows where the back of the net is. Austin doesn’t have the pace to burn past the Arsenal defence but if the centre-backs are not touch tight to the English forward, he will make them pay.