After their fantastic victory over Chelsea last weekend, Arsenal are now a team who have won their last 4 games in the Premier League and are high on confidence at the moment. However, they would be facing an opponent in Burnley on Sunday who have so far mastered the art of causing upsets, beating teams which came to Turf Moore at the back of an uplifting victory in their last game.
Having already beaten Liverpool and Watford at home, Burnley won’t be an easy opposition by any means for Arsene Wenger side and will provide a strong test for the Gunners.
Let’s take a look at the key battles which will decide how the game will pan out on Sunday.
Michael Keane Vs Alexis Sanchez
In what will be a real test, Arsenal’s Alexis Sanchez who is almost certain to lead the line for the visitors, will face Michael Keane and a deep defensive line on Sunday. While Alexis has dazzled in his last two games, it must be remembered that he has struggled against a low defensive block which denies him the space to run into.
Burnley would be a big test for the Chilean and Keane would hope to use the opportunity to try and nullify the forward which if done successfully would affect the forward play of the visitors enabling the hosts the upper hand. The result of this battle will hugely influence the match.
Theo Walcott Vs Stephen Ward
Burnley left-back Stephen Ward will have a huge task on his hand when he will face Arsenal on Sunday and that is to contain a rejuvenated Theo Walcott. After a long time Walcott, now seems to be the player who he can be with all the talent he has got and so far has already scored 3 goals while assisting another in the six games he has played in the Premier League so far and looks hungrier than ever.
Getting Walcott operating back to his best is such a plus for Arsenal and it gives them a significant edge in the attack. Burnley left-back Ward would need to keep Walcott quiet on Sunday which at the moment seems very difficult for if the winger is not contained then Burnley are in for a bad day at the office.
Granit Xhaka Vs Steven Defour
Sean Dyche would have high hopes on his new signing Defour for the Arsenal game as the Belgian has been the catalyst for the Clarets midfield this season. Apart from scoring a wonderful goal against Hull City, the midfielder has also provided 3 assists for his teammates.
Arsene Wenger knows that Defour would pose a threat and Granit Xhaka will be assigned to make sure that the 28-year old is not able to influence the midfield during the transitions.
Xhaka, who could partner Cazorla on Sunday, will hold his position and cut out the passes from the Burnley number 16 which allows them to counter quickly. This is a battle to look forward to with two combative players going against each other and the result of this battle will reflect on the scoreline.
