Arsenal vs Blackpool preview

Could a shock be on the cards? Its possible, that’s for sure. After Ian Holloway’s colourful army demolished a lacklustre Wigan side, their confidence will be booming. They will bring great support to Ashburton Grove, and will fancy a point against a frail Arsenal team, who currently have just two centre half’s available.

With Marlon Harewood’s brute strength and decent hold up play, Thomas Vermaelen and the injury prone, but highly regarded Yohan Djourou will do well to contain him. If Harewood holds the ball up well, Gary Taylor-Fletcher and Brett Ormerod’s movement off the ball will create space, inviting a shot, which could end up anywhere with the infamous Manuel Almunia in goal. We’ve already seen goalkeeping errors this season, particularly from the usually reliable and consistent keeper’s in Chris Kirkland and Pepe Reina, so anything could happen.

Despite this, Arsenal are obviously the favourites, and possess a huge goal threat against an inexperienced Blackpool defence, even without their talisman, Robin Van Persie, who is not quite match fit. Marouane Chamakh will be eager to prove himself, and Theo Walcott’s pace will certainly cause problems. The injury Samir Nasri picked up has ruled him out for a month, and with Jack Wilshere forcing his way through and Tomas Rosicky proving he can make a difference, the competition is tight. There is also a certain man by the name of Cesc, who is likely to return and Alex Song is back which will give the Gunners some much needed stability and aggression in the centre.

It will be an emotional return for Cesc, who will receive a deafening reception. Arsenal fans will be expecting, and lets hope the Gunners deliver, as it would be disastrous to mark their return to the Emirates with anything other than three points.