North London giants Arsenal welcome the Saints to the Emirates on Tuesday night, as third place goes up against eighth spot Southampton. The Gunners were beaten in the previous fixture in the Premier League by Chelsea and will want to get back to winning ways in this one, after their triumph over Burnley in the FA Cup. Arsene Wenger’s side have lost just once in their last five games in all competitions, while the visitors have lost twice in the same number of matches. Further, Ronald Koeman’s side beat the Londoners in the reverse fixture at the St. Marys’ 4-0 in December, which might give them a huge boost going into this game.
With Arsenal looking to challenge for the league title this season, the French manager will be hoping for a solid performance from his side once again in mid-week, after the win in the cup at the weekend.
Here is what Wenger had to say in his pre-match press conference:
“Everyone who played is available. The only problem is Rosicky picked up an injury.”
Speaking about Jack Wilshere, he said, “He is looking good overall. I have assured Roy Hodgson he is doing well.”
Talking about the title race, he added, “Somebody will win it. You have to have strong performances to win the title.”
Giving a latest update of the Rosicky injury, he said, “It is a thigh problem. We don’t now how deep the problem is but he will have a scan.”
Talking about the last fixture against Southampton, he added, “We were unlucky with the three goals due to referee decisions last time.”
Further, about Elneny, he stated, “His first performance was very good. He made plenty of passes but needs to adapt.”
About February, “You go through periods were you don’t get what you expect. It is a big month.”
On Serge Gnabry, “He is likely to go out to the Championship. It is between two clubs.”