Wolves know how to turn a top-of-the-table against bottom-of-the-table Premier League clash into an upset, and will look to repeat history against Arsenal.
Mikel Arteta will head to Molineux knowing how badly his side needs to win, as Arsenal have dropped points in four of their previous six Premier League games.
With Manchester City now showing their face in the title race, the need to win is greater than ever to remove unnecessary pressure.
Given that Wolves have won just one game all season, Arsenal’s chances look good on paper, but history alerts the Gunners not to underestimate the West Midlands club.
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Wolves can upset Arsenal as top vs bottom Premier League history resurfaces
Wolves are giving Derby County a run for their money as the worst team in Premier League history, but the Old Gold have already scared Arsenal this season.
It’s one reason why the Gunners cannot underestimate Rob Edwards’ side, with another reason being Wolves’ record in top against bottom of the table clashes.
Data from Opta reveals that there have been 42 matches between teams at the top of the Premier League table and the bottom, and unsurprisingly, the bottom side has only won on four occasions.
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Contrary to belief, the data gives Arsenal a reason to fear Wolves, as two of those four victories from the underdogs have been achieved by Wolves.
In 2004, Wolves beat table-toppers Manchester United 1-0 to stun the Premier League.
Fascinatingly, they did the same thing in 2011, beating United 2-1 to once again shock the league and Sir Alex Ferguson.
50% of wins in matches between the bottom of the table and the top of the table have been Wolves, and Arsenal need to ensure that the percentage doesn’t sway even more in the Old Gold’s favour.
Mikel Arteta admits he’s wary about Wolves trip
It’s not only history that will alert Arsenal about a potential upset, but the Gunners’ own memories, too.
Arsenal’s 2-1 win over Wolves in December was abysmal, as Arteta’s side needed two own goals to win the contest, which was littered with lacklustre attacking sequences.
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In his pre-match press conference ahead of Wednesday night’s game, the Arsenal manager was asked if he’s ‘wary’ of Wolves because of the poor performance on matchday 16.
“Well, I think understanding the difficulty of the match is always there in any game in the Premier League,” Arteta said.
“When you come to the last stages of the season, you know the importance of every win and what you have to do.
“I sense the team is in a really good emotional state, really looking forward to playing tomorrow, and that’s why. Play with that energy, that confidence, and I’m sure we’ll continue to do what we’ve done.”
It was a perfect response from Arteta, whose reply came as music to Arsenal fans’ ears.
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