Arsenal travel to the Britannia Stadium this weekend with unhappy memories of last seasons encounter. Our last visit here did see us take 3 points but we lost much more than we gained. I am of course alluding to the horrific leg break to Aaron Ramsey.
Injury News :
Here is Arsene Wengers update on injuries:
“Diaby, Nasri and Fabregas will be out,” said Wenger. “Nasri and Fabregas have a little chance for Aston Villa but not for Stoke.
“Johan Djourou had a test yesterday that looked quite positive. We have a doubt about Clichy’s hamstring. He had a test that was not completely satisfactory, both have a chance to be fit.”
“Thomas Vermaelen is available and could be in the squad. Aaron Ramsey is likely to get another chance, I can even say that he will play.”
Probable Line up :
Subs : Lehmann, Eboue, Gibbs, DJ*, TR7, Denilson, Nikko, Chamakh
Final thoughts :
Stoke play a very physical game, and we all know this. Passing the ball quickly and ensuring we get our rhythm will be crucial for us here. They are a bullish team and their obvious tactic will be to catch us out at corners and set pieces. Then of course we have their long throw tactic, which will prove to be a big test for our defense. If we can deal with that, then I feel half the game is ours. An early goal will be crucial to keep the crowd tamed, and if we ‘concede’ then a high pressure game should be adopted by us because we know they shall become ‘ultra defensive,’ those Damn turtles!
Guns-out,
Submitted by THE ARMOURY
