Iconic former Arsenal midfielder Paul Merson has now identified a flaw in Mikel Arteta’s squad ahead of their clash with Nottingham Forest.
Arsenal are set to take on Nottingham Forest in a Premier League encounter at the City Ground this evening.
The Gunners need to take three points from this match in order to build some positive momentum, having thrashed Crystal Palace 5-0 last time out.
The north London club lost precious ground in the title race over the course of a run of poor form around the New Year period. Mikel Arteta’s side now need to string together a series of positive results in order to get themselves back into title contention.
They could also be without some key players for this visit to the City Ground. Arteta has already ruled Thomas Partey out of contention for this clash. Meanwhile, Declan Rice and Gabriel Magalhaes will both also be subject to late fitness tests.
Paul Merson shares Nottingham Forest v Arsenal prediction
The Gunners should still have enough to beat the struggling Midlands side, though. Paul Merson certainly expects his former club to return to the Emirates Stadium with three points in tow.
Previewing the match for Sportskeeda, Merson said, “Arsenal have got to keep winning to stay in the Premier League title race. After this one, they have a big game against Liverpool at the Emirates and if they get six points, they are right back in it as they have a run of winnable fixtures after that.”
“Arsenal have a fantastic squad, but they need a world-class center forward to take them to the next level. I also feel they should be more consistent if they are to sustain a Premier League title challenge season after season. If you look at some of the games they lost this season – like Fulham and West Ham – they should be winning those games if they want to get their hands on the prize. Manchester City have shown over the years how relentless they can be, while Liverpool are once again a force to be reckoned with this season.”
“If Arsenal win their next two games, they are right back into the Premier League title race without a shadow of a doubt.” Merson then tipped Arsenal to triumph with a 2-1 scoreline.
Mikel Arteta needs his strikers to step up
The Gunners’ perceived need for a new striker has been a hot topic in recent weeks. Certainly, Gabriel Jesus has underperformed in terms of goalscoring so far this season. The Brazilian attacker has only found the back of the net three times in the Premier League. Eddie Nketiah has also done little to suggest that he has what it takes to fire Arsenal to a title triumph, as he has failed to score in his last ten Premier League outings.
Arteta has already said that the club aren’t able to get any business done in what remains of the current January transfer window, though. As such, the Spanish coach must find a way to make his existing attacking contingent more potent and clinical between now and the end of the season.
It would provide a huge boost for the club if Jesus and/or Nketiah could find the back of the net against Nottingham Forest. A goal for either player could reinvigorate them and raise their confidence levels in a hugely positive way.
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