Arsenal v Bolton – Preview

by JAMES CURTIS Oh the weather outside is frightful, watching Arsenal is so delightful … Heavy snow may have shut down half of London today, but for Arsenal it’s work as usual and time to switch on, as they entertain Bolton at the Emirates this evening.

Folk from the North West of England are renowned for basking in harsh wintery conditions, so Arsenal must prepare as they have done during a successful Christmas schedule in order to take all three points. A win would see the reds leap-frog Manchester United into second spot with 44 points, just one behind leaders Chelsea.

Maybe the conditions will help Bolton to feel more at home, but in London the Trotters have only won once in their last 20 visits. Arsenal have been victorious in their last six league and cup games in this tie and with the run Wenger’s men are on at the moment – five wins from six games –  the form guide will be tipping an Arsenal win.

For the first time this season, Arsenal must play without the services of Robin Van Persie, Cesc Fabregas and Alex Song, a time then for new responsibility and accountability. The Arsenal wheels are in motion and everybody tonight must take their turn to steer the way – this is not a game for passengers.

The biggest question is who will fulfil Alex Song’s role and sit in front of the defence? Can the Cameroonian even be replaced? The feeling is no, as Song has a special gift of keeping the ball that nobody else available tonight can imitate over a full 90 minutes. Because of this, Arsenal’s central trio must be smatter, support the man in possession and keep Bolton guessing.

Naturally, Abou Diaby and Aaron Ramsey are attack minded players so Wenger will not want to kill the threat, and suspicion is Denilson will be the one to hold if anybody. Andrey Arshain is expected to be fit after a minor foot injury and completing the front three should be Samir Nasri and Eduardo.

The Brazilian has bagged three in his last four games. Diaby, Ramsey and Nasri have also found the net on recent outings. Let’s hope one of them adds to the 51 league goals Arsenal have this season and the defence keeps Bolton snowed in with a clean sheet, just like in their last three games at the Emirates.

JimC

More Posts