Gut Feeling: I'm a bit worried about the possibility of jet lag and combine that with an enthusiastic performance from Watford. I think it's going to be a tougher match than the form guide would suggest.
I'm pleased to say that there was little jet lag from the boys in red, apart perhaps for the last 15 minutes of the game where they looked a bit tired.
The score suggests that it was a stroll in the park but Watford had some good chances. They just didn't take them... thank God.
What Arsenal Need: An early goal would be very nice, but realistically Arsenal just need to keep hold of the ball and be patient. They will create lots of chances and just need to take two or three of them.
Arsenal were patient and held the ball for long periods. They took three of the chances they created, which is what I'd asked for.
Things To Watch Out For: Keep an eye on Justin Hoyte playing in his favoured position at right back. It would be encouraging to see Henry looking sharper, as I feel he has underperformed this season, perhaps due to a busy off-season and little pre-season training.
Hoyte did play quite well, but my at times he was caught on an Eboue-like run up field, leaving the defense one man short.
Hopes For The Match: I'm hoping for a glimpse of young Theo in his favourite position on the left wing.
Theo had a great start to the match and with better finishing from his team-mates he could have had two assists in the first twenty minutes.
Henry does look petulant at times, which was evidenced by his tantrum and punching the turf after Robin took responsibility to shoot and didn't pass to him. This isn't the behaviour I would expect of a captain. Does Wenger not see him acting like this?
Prediction: Arsenal 3 Watford 1
Score: Arsenal 3 Watford 0
