After an unceremonious exit from the Europa League, all attention will be on the Premier League as side Gunners host West Ham at the Emirates. The match schedules for 7th March with kickoff at 18:00 GMT.
A late strike in the dying minutes of the Europa clash against Olympiakos was enough to see out the Gunners from the Europa League. The exit came as a shocker for many, especially after a spirited comeback following a bicycle kick from Aubemayang.
With the hopes of a return to the Champions League dim than ever, Arteta will have to salvage and pull focus on the devastated players to the league. Arteta, during a press conference, admitted on the state of the players after the last-minute exit.
After a taste of the relegation, David Moyes leaped from the battle with an impressive 3-1 win over Southampton. The win was the first most massive goal gap for the Hammers since the taking over by Moyes. The win also saw the Hammers register their first win from their past five matches.
With the revitalizing of the Hammers, will it inflict more injury to the shaky side of Arteta, or will the Gunners rediscover their winning ways?
Arsenal vs. West Ham Head to Head
Both sides have met in 28 games with the Gunners taking home lion’s share with 19 wins while the contenders are pulling off 5 wins. Here is a look at their past encounters:
West Ham 1-3 Arsenal
West Ham 1-0 Arsenal
Arsenal 3-1 West Ham
Arsenal 4-1 West Ham
West Ham 0-0 Arsenal
Arsenal 3-0 West Ham
West Ham 1-5 Arsenal
West Ham 3-3 Arsenal
Arsenal Team News
During their FA clash with Portsmouth, midfielder Torreira came off the pitch on a stretcher after a leg injury. However, the Uruguayan did not suffer any severe damage. After picking up a back injury during their Europa League clash, defender Mustafi who came off the match is fit for selection.
Winger Reiss Nelson is fit for selection after registering two assists in their FA match. Cedric Soares and Kieran Tierney set for full training at the end of the month.
West Ham Team News
After an unsuccessful move from Villareal, attacking midfielder Fornals was on the goal sheet in their 3-1 win. The skipper expects to pick up the form from La Liga to the league. Other long term injuries at the club are former Gunner Jack Wilshere.
Prediction and Odds
Arsenal will be coming off a disappointing Europa exit but with back to back wins over Everton and Newcastle. West Ham is yet to find its form under Moyes despite their win over Southampton.
Arsenal Win
Goals Over 2.5
Aubemayang to Score