Arsenal know the importance of resuming their Premier League campaign with three points after the international break.
Mikel Arteta came in for criticism following the 1-0 defeat to Liverpool before the break for setting his team up too conservatively.
The upcoming clash with Nottingham Forest has been given added interest after the appointment of former Tottenham Hotspur manager Ange Postecoglou following the sacking of Nuno Espirito Santo.
Arsenal can’t afford to drop any more early points in the Premier League title race and two players in particular will be important to unlocking a stern Forest defence.
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Martin Zubimendi and Declan Rice hold the key to Arsenal victory over Nottingham Forest
Martin Zubimendi and Declan Rice enjoyed fruitful international breaks with their national sides as both England and Spain picked up maximum points with the Gunners duo at the heart of their success.
The Spanish media praised Zubimendi and Mikel Merino for their goals and assists during Spain’s victory over Bulgaria.
Micah Richards praised Rice for his set piece deliveries as he produced two assists for England in their emphatic demolition of Serbia.
Whilst Zubimendi and Rice will need to be switched on defensively against a dangerous Forest counter-attack, they will also be key to the Gunners unlocking their excellent defence.
All eyes will be on Noni Madueke and Viktor Gyokeres to provide the attacking spark, however, penetration from midfield will be key to victory.
Zubimendi has the ability to find intricate passes through the lines, whilst Rice has proven he can attack the box late and get involved amongst the goals.
It may be an afternoon where Arteta’s side need to remain patient and look to one of their midfield duo to provide that moment when needed.
Adrian Clarke highlights Martin Zubimendi and Declan Rice’s importance to Arsenal
Speaking on his official YouTube channel, former player and pundit Adrian Clarke has also suggested that Zubimendi and Rice will be key in an Arsenal win over Nottingham Forest.
Clarke stated: “We did have a bit of a gap there [in midfield] at Anfield. Rice and Zubimendi need to stay close together if they are to screen those passes into Gibbs-White and into Chris Wood because Elliott Anderson is absolutely a player who will make those passes.”
Even at this early stage, Arsenal can put pressure back on Liverpool with a win in the early kick off before Arne Slot’s side travel to Burnley.
However, fail to win and already Arteta’s side could face a five to six point deficit. Three points at the Emirates Stadium are an absolute must.
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