What Arsenal Need: Arsenal need a victory. Full stop. I wouldn't say no to a one nil win from a goal deflected of Toure's buttock, but Arsenal need to start making these dominant and aesthetically pleasing matches turn into the romps they deserve to be. An impressive win would vindicate Wenger's passionate belief in playing beautiful football.
Things To Watch Out For: I'm so pleased Clichy is on his way back to full match fitness, as Arsenal need a true left-footed full back on the field. I hope to see him continue to get forward and look to develop a relationship with Rosicky on the left flank. But it is with some regret that I see Gallas move back to centre-half, as I'm such a fan of the young Djourou. Obviously Gallas is first choice in that position but I hope the spell on the sidelines won't inhibit Djourou's development. I personally feel he has put himself ahead of Senderos in the centre-back pecking order.
Hopes For The Match: Arsenal need to carry on playing their style of football. They just need to convert more of the chances they create. I hope Arsenal get the result they deserve and if form was anything to go by... that should be a comfortable victory.
My team selection for this game:
Henry
van Persie, Rosicky, Gilberto, Fabregas, Hleb
Clichy, Gallas, Toure, Hoyte
Lehmann
Subs: Almunia, Walcott, Djourou, Flamini, Adebayor
It's good to see Adebayor return to the first team squad.
Long-term issues: I wonder what Senderos must be thinking? Does he believe he deserves a place in the first 11, as he rightly did last season? But things have changed for him this year. Gallas has automatically assumed his position and Djourou has jumped ahead of him in he pecking order. The Gunners are spoilt for choice, which is nice, but I hope they can keep everyone happy, as I'd hate to lose either of the youngsters.
Eboue is looking to play in the Carling Cup game against Everton and although Hoyte has filled in well, Eboue has been missed... particularly by Hleb.
Prediction: West Ham 1 Arsenal 3
