Arsenal is set to host Fulham at the Emirates Stadium, with the highly anticipated return of Bukayo Saka. His hamstring injury in December significantly impacted Arsenal`s Premier League title aspirations. Saka`s comeback is a major boost for the Gunners, whose attack has been less potent in his absence.
Without Saka, and with other key attackers like Kai Havertz, Gabriel Martinelli, and Gabriel Jesus also missing games, Arsenal`s scoring has dipped. They`ve managed just 19 goals in 12 Premier League matches without Saka, and only two in their last four games. His return could reignite their offensive firepower.
Fulham, meanwhile, has their own ambitions. Recent league victories have propelled them to eighth place, and a win in this match could potentially lift them to sixth. Although historically Fulham has struggled at Arsenal, they have proven to be a challenging opponent for Mikel Arteta`s side recently, securing five points in their last three encounters.
Match Information
- Date: Tuesday, April 1
- Location: Emirates Stadium, London
Previous Meeting
In their last match at Craven Cottage in December, Arsenal faced frustration. Despite dominating possession and creating numerous chances after Raul Jimenez scored the opening goal, they only managed a draw. Kai Havertz equalized in the second half, but a late goal from Bukayo Saka was controversially disallowed for a marginal offside.
Arsenal Team News
Mikel Arteta confirmed Saka`s readiness, stating, “Bukayo is ready to go. He`s been eager to return and we`ve had to manage his eagerness. He`s a significant asset for us, and his contribution is vital to our success. We are thrilled to have him back.”
Projected Lineups
Arsenal: David Raya; Jurrien Timber, William Saliba, Gabriel, Myles Lewis-Skelly; Martin Odegaard, Thomas Partey, Declan Rice; Gabriel Martinelli, Mikel Merino, Leandro Trossard
Fulham: Bernd Leno; Timothy Castagne, Joachim Andersen, Calvin Bassey, Antonee Robinson; Sasa Lukic, Sander Berge; Alex Iwobi, Andreas Pereira, Willian; Raul Jimenez
Key Match Points
Champions League Focus
With Arsenal`s Premier League title hopes potentially secondary to securing a top position and with a crucial Champions League match against Real Madrid approaching, Arteta will likely be strategizing for both fixtures. This could influence team selection and player minutes in the Fulham game, possibly managing Saka`s playtime and experimenting with the lineup.
Player Spotlight
Bukayo Saka
Saka`s return is the main storyline. Before his injury, he was in exceptional form and considered a world-class player. His impact on Arsenal`s attack is undeniable. His performance in this match, and leading up to the Champions League quarter-finals, will be closely watched.
Match Prediction
Anticipate Arsenal to start cautiously but ultimately secure a victory, potentially leveraging their bench strength, which could include players like Ethan Nwaneri, Raheem Sterling, and possibly Saka. Prediction: Arsenal 2, Fulham 1
Dominic Ashworth