Arsenal return to Premier League action on New Year’s Day with a trip to Brentford at the Gtech Community Stadium.
The Gunners have an opportunity to go second in the table and six points behind Liverpool, who have a game in hand. Last time out, Mikel Arteta ‘s side edged past Ipswich Town 1-0 at the Emirates Stadium.
A first half goal from Kai Havertz proved to be enough as they secured their 10th league win of the campaign so far. Now, they face two difficult away tests against Brentford and Brighton at the beginning of January.
Arsenal’s injury concerns have eased somewhat in recent weeks, although they suffered a significant blow when Bukayo Saka was forced off with a hamstring injury against Crystal Palace earlier this month. The winger is expected to be sidelined for quite some time, while other injuries in the squad are minor.
The manager opted to play Gabriel Martinelli in place of Saka against Ipswich, with Leandro Trossard in on the left. Raheem Sterling remains a doubt for the Brentford fixture, but his availability would provide a significant attacking boost ahead of two crucial away fixtures.
