Premier League preview: Gunners face West Ham
It's a huge game for Arsenal as they face West Ham United at the Emirates on Sunday in the Premier League. All eyes will be on departing manager Arsene Wenger, especially how fans react in the stadium. Besides that, Arsenal face Atletico Madrid this week in Europa League and a win today can set the right momentum for the Gunners.
The defeat against Newcastle United last week was a deafening blow for Arsenal. Therefore, for them getting back to winning ways is crucial. The Gunners face Manchester United in the next Premier League encounter and this match is vital in that context. They are also battling with Burnley for a sixth position in the table. Failing to do so, will hurt them.
Arsenal should use this game as a build-up for the UEFA Europa League semis against Atletico this week. A win at home, where they have been strong, will help them get enough confidence to go against the Spanish giants over a two-legged tie. Wenger will hope to get his selection and tactics right and give the fans a lot to cheer about.
In last 21 meetings of these two sides, Arsenal have lost only twice against West Ham. The two wins for the Hammers came in 2015 and 2017- both at the Emirates. The Gunners have lost 11 Premier League matches this season. West Ham are on a three-match unbeaten run. In-form striker Andy Carroll has scored three in his last three PL appearances.
Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang is in goal-scoring form and will be the problem maker for West Ham. His pace, movements and link-up play are something Hammers need to stop. For the visitors, Javier Hernandez could make the difference.
