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If Viktor Gyokeres or Gabriel Jesus had assumed {that a} return to health would imply a return to the Arsenal crew, then they might have to drastically reassess the state of affairs. Such has been the standard of Mikel Merino’s performances in latest weeks, it appears the emergency striker may now be the primary alternative in Mikel Arteta’s eyes. And rightly so.

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by no means supposed for Merino to play as a striker this season however he has over the previous month that he should now be thought-about the person in full possession of the shirt. The Spaniard’s purpose on this tetchy victory over Brentford was his fourth in six matches as a centre-forward.

It’s not solely the objectives, although. Arsenal have additionally performed a few of their finest attacking soccer since Merino got here into the crew following an damage to Gyokeres. Merino has unlocked Arsenal’s attacking gamers in ways in which since his big-money summer season switch from Sporting Lisbon.

This was not a kind of matches the place Arsenal produced their flowing finest over the course of 90 minutes. Brentford didn’t enable Arteta’s crew to construct their regular rhythm, and all of it turned much more scrappy than Arsenal would have favored till Bukayo Saka wrapped up the win in stoppage time.

However Arsenal obtained the job achieved once more, shifting 5 factors clear, and it was Merino who delivered their decisive moments. His Eleventh-minute header got here on the finish of the sport’s best attacking strikes, and it was then his late go that allowed Saka to attain the second. Whether or not it’s towards Bayern Munich or Brentford, Merino has really turn out to be the participant for all events.

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In 4 weeks as a striker, this transformed midfielder has delivered 4 objectives and three assists. It may be time to cease contemplating him a midfield participant and as an alternative regard him as a real long-term choice in assault, regardless of the presence of Gyokeres, Jesus and Kai Havertz (at the moment injured) in Arteta’s squad.

“He was immense once more,” mentioned Arteta of Merino. “He’s all over the place, and he has obtained actually good momentum. He makes the crew a lot better.

“It’s his curiosity and his will to study, and doubtless his will to assist the crew. He knew that we had a serious drawback: we misplaced Viktor, Kai was out and Jesus was out. So we wanted an answer. He did it final yr very well and this season he has in all probability taken it to a different step. He is ready to do much more issues. The crew is absolutely grateful – and he’s having fun with it.”

Merino’s ongoing wonderful type introduced essentially the most cheer to Arteta on the evening, though it was additionally an event to savour for Ben White. The best-back has misplaced his place to Jurrien Timber this season however, on his first league begin because the opening weekend of the marketing campaign, he issued a reminder of his qualities on and off the ball.

Sadly for Arsenal, it was not all excellent news. Centre-back Cristhian Mosquera limped off within the first half, becoming a member of the injured William Saliba and Gabriel Magalhães on the sidelines, and there was additionally a late knock to Declan Rice. The lack of Rice for any significant period of time can be an unlimited drawback for Arsenal, regardless of their squad depth. “We now have to see tomorrow what he has obtained,” mentioned Arteta. “He couldn’t stick with it enjoying.”

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Brentford’s crew choice had not screamed of match-winning ambition, with arguably their 4 most vital gamers – Igor Thiago, Jordan Henderson, Mikkel Damsgaard and Nathan Collins – all beginning on the bench. However underneath Keith Andrews, because it was with Thomas Frank in earlier years, they at all times appear to make life sophisticated for greater groups. Within the second half, particularly, they prevented Arsenal from creating their regular circulation of possibilities.

Arsenal had begun the sport brightly, with White and Noni Madueke inflicting issues on the correct wing. They mixed properly within the build-up to Merino’s purpose, which was headed house with energy after White had produced an correct cross. This was Merino’s eighth headed purpose because the begin of final season – no different Premier League participant has scored extra headers in that point.

The purpose got here on the finish of a 14-pass transfer involving all 10 of Arsenal’s outfield gamers and there have been to be extra early examples of their fluidity. At one level, left-back Riccardo Calafiori back-heeled the ball to right-back White within the Brentford penalty space.

Arsenal then seemed to be spooked, although, by Brentford nearly scoring an equaliser from a nook. It required a spectacularly athletic save by David Raya to disclaim Kevin Schade. Towards his former crew, Raya pushed Schade’s header on to the crossbar.

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Having regarded so harmful within the first half, Arsenal had been much more uncomfortable after the break, till Saka struck the late second. Racing on to Merino’s go, the England winger minimize on to his left foot and fired at Brentford goalkeeper Caoimhin Kelleher, who might solely palm the ball up into the sky and into his personal internet.

09:54pm

Sunderland and Leeds near shock wins

That’s all from me, however there are nonetheless two late kick-offs being performed and two promoted sides springing a shock.

Leeds are 3-1 up, near inflicting an upset at house towards Chelsea. Comply with it .

Sunderland are 1-0 up at Anfield, ten minutes from beating the Premier League champions of their yard. Learn our dwell protection .

09:50pm

Ben White: ‘It’s about sticking collectively’

09:47pm

Arsenal’s subsequent fixtures

The 2 in-form groups within the Premier League meet on Saturday at Villa Park. That will likely be an actual check for Arsenal and doubtless an pleasing look ahead to the impartial, given how prolific the house aspect have been.

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December 6: Aston Villa (a)

December 10: Membership Brugge (a)

09:44pm

Arsenal march on on the Emirates

Bukayo Saka celebrates with Martin Odegaard after scoring Arsenal’s second – PA/Bradley Collyer

Applause from Mikel Arteta – Shutterstock/Tolga Akmen

09:39pm

Arsenal’s house comforts

09:37pm

Bukayo Saka speaks to Sky Sports activities

That’s what it’s all about. Final week was actually intense, we had three large video games. We had been on such a excessive, we knew we simply wanted to get that win [today]. I felt we managed the sport very well and we began very well. It was nearly searching for the second purpose which we obtained ultimately.

[On his goal] I had a close to miss simply earlier than that and hoped I’d get one other likelihood. At first, it didn’t appear like it will go in however the bounce was good for me.

Saka concluded the joint interview with Ben White by handing the participant of the match trophy to the right-back. A headache for Brentford defenders together with his overlapping runs and watchful on the again, White couldn’t have achieved far more to stake a declare for extra begins, even with Timber in terrific nick.

09:34pm

Premier League full-time scores from the 7.30pm kick-offs

Villa transfer as much as third and Palace are fifth at the moment. On the different finish, a twelfth defeat in 14 league video games for Wolves.

Burnley 0 Crystal Palace 1

Wolves 0 Nottingham Forest 1

09:32pm

Extra damage worries for Arteta

Bukayo Saka waves on the followers, whereas Gabriel and William Saliba cheer from the sidelines. Pleasure on the Emirates on the pitch and off it from the followers, however that damage to Cristhian Mosquera will likely be a priority. Declan Rice additionally limped off.

09:27pm

Full-time: Arsenal 2 Brentford 0

A deflection falls to Van den Berg, however he can not join correctly and David Raya has a straightforward save. And that’s full-time.

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A primary clear sheet in 5 for Arsenal and it has now been 18 video games since they misplaced. They laboured at instances, particularly within the second-half, however Bukayo Saka got here on so as to add the gloss after Mikel Merino rose effectively to nod house an early opener. Raya deserves credit score for his reflex save from a Schade header; finally, the house aspect and Premier League leaders deserved their three factors.

Their five-point lead over Manchester Metropolis has been restored.

09:24pm

90+4 minutes: Arsenal 2 Brentford 0

4 minutes into the six of stoppage time. Brentford have fought effectively, however finally created little aside from that Schade header. Even the introduction of Igor Thiago has not galvanised them.

09:22pm

GOAL!

Arsenal 2 Brentford 0 (Saka) Saka releases all the stress within the Emirates, ending off a speedy Arsenal break. It was a pinpoint ball in from a teammate, he twisted inside Damsgaard and despatched a rasping shot at Kelleher. The goalkeeper will get a hand to it, however he can not cease the ball from bouncing over him and into the purpose, regardless of almost managing to cease it going over the road.

09:19pm

89 minutes: Arsenal 1 Brentford 0

Oh, that actually needed to be two. Calafiori shoots at purpose, with Kelleher parrying to his left. Saka is quickest to the ball, however scuffs his shot and the Irish goalkeeper can gratefully get well and fall on the ball.

09:18pm

GOAL!

Brighton 3 Aston Villa 4 (Van Hecke) Objectives galore on the Amex, with the house aspect refusing to simply accept defeat. Pretty strike from the Dutch defender to provide Brighton followers hope.

09:17pm

87 minutes: Arsenal 1 Brentford 0

One other catapult throw from Kayode on the left. Flicked on, simply over Van den Berg within the field, and Arsenal clear their traces. They’re a couple of minutes away from restoring their five-point lead on the prime of the Premier League.

09:15pm

Anxiousness rising within the stands

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It’s all changing into reasonably tetchy and nervy right here. The house followers know their gamers are struggling to seek out their regular rhythm. The Emirates can turn out to be agitated very simply and that’s occurring now. It gained’t assist Arsenal’s trigger.

09:15pm

85 minutes: Arsenal 1 Brentford 0

Nasty collision between Piero Hinapie and Igor Thiago. The Ecuadorian has come off worse; he grimaces and is assessed for concussion, resulting in a pause of a number of minutes in play. Seems like he’s good to proceed, as is Thiago, after a quick spell on the touchline.

09:13pm

GOAL!

Brighton 2 Aston Villa 4 (Malen) Villa have no idea when they’re crushed and so they have a buffer now, because of Donyell Malen. Along with Arsenal, they’re the in-form crew on this league proper now.

09:12pm

82 minutes: Arsenal 1 Brentford 0

Ouattara tries to play previous final man Timber, however the Dutchman nicks the ball off him and performs again to Raya. He has been so reliable for Arteta’s aspect this season.

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Up the opposite finish, Saka sends Damsgaard for a Twix with a intelligent flip, shapes to shoot, however passes out on the total when searching for White. Declan Rice is down and limps off, holding his calf. One other talismanic exhibiting, one other damage concern for Arteta.

09:08pm

79 minutes: Arsenal 1 Brentford 0

Merino will get the ball in a promising place after which lofts a ball in the direction of the nook, not a fellow teammate, like a golfer sending up a bunker shot. What on earth was that?

Nonetheless, Arsenal get the ball again and Saka jinks round, discovering house for a cross and almost drawing a foul from Collins. The house aspect scent blood, with Arteta exhorting them from the touchline.

09:05pm

GOAL!

Wolves 0 Nottingham Forest 1 (Igor Jesus) The impasse is damaged within the Midlands derby. Forest are closing in on a 3rd league win in 4 video games. No finish in sight to Wolves’ woe, seemingly.

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Elsewhere within the relegation battle, Leeds go in at half-time 2-0 up towards Chelsea. Blimey. You may observe it .

09:02pm

73 minutes: Arsenal 1 Brentford 0

One other lengthy throw for Brentford on the correct touchline, however Kayode will not be having any pleasure but together with his looping, lengthy deliveries. Hincapie heads away and Calafiori sends the ball excessive into the North London evening sky.

This scoreline will do, however they haven’t pressed on as Arteta would in all probability have favored within the second-half.

Lewis-Potter → Henry

Collins → Pinnock

08:59pm

69 minutes: Arsenal 1 Brentford 0

Shut! After passing their means by midfield, Declan Rice finds sixth gear, cuts in and wallops a ball at purpose, 20 yards out. Kelleher can solely palm the ball out and Merino is first to the rebound, however will get his toes all fallacious and stubs the ball out of play. That ought to in all probability have been the second purpose.

08:57pm

GOAL!

Brighton 2 Villa 3 (Onana) What a turnaround. From an inswinger into the mixer, Amadou Onana heads Unai Emery’s aspect forward at shut vary. If every thing stays the identical, Aston Villa will likely be third within the league.

08:56pm

66 minutes: Arsenal 1 Brentford 0

White crosses in and Calafiori carves out a taking pictures alternative however Kelleher will get down low to his proper to parry it. Merino fees in for the rebound and goes down. Nothing doing from the referee and the VAR verify is quickly over.

08:54pm

64 minutes: Arsenal 1 Brentford 0

The second-half has lacked a bit spark and urgency to this point, perhaps Eze, Saka or Igor Thiago can carry it. Brentford imagine they will get one thing from this sport and they will give it every thing.

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A White backpass, pinned into the left nook, to Raya has simply sufficient on it for the goalkeeper to clear, with Igor Thiago lurking, eager to pounce. That was a bit shut for consolation.

Yellow card for Yarmoliuk, hanging off Eze’s shirt.

08:50pm

61 minutes: Arsenal 1 Brentford 0

A couple of passes are going astray. Madueke miscontrols as White will get a foot in forward of Ouattara and appears to show defence into assault. Either side ring within the adjustments. Andrews will not be ready any longer to ship on a few of his most influential gamers, however Arsenal even have their in-form wingers on the sphere.

Thiago → Schade

Damsgaard → Jensen

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Henderson → Janelt

Saka → Madueke

Eze → Martinelli

08:47pm

58 minutes: Arsenal 1 Brentford 0

Arsenal have had a confidence-building couple of minutes in possession, progressively working their means ahead. Rice performs to Martinelli on the left, who beats his marker Kayode on the byline, however delivers a poor ball in.

08:44pm

55 minutes: Arsenal 1 Brentford 0

This has been far and away Brentford’s finest spell – solely spell – of sustained stress. However they nonetheless haven’t created a lot. Kayode is having fun with a variety of room to run on the correct and he attracts his marker Calafiori infield, discovering Ouattara. The boys in blue transfer it round midfield. Janelt sends a looking out one in however Raya snaffles it.

08:42pm

53 minutes: Arsenal 1 Brentford 0

A promising begin from Keith Andrews’ aspect, seeking to put the league leaders underneath stress. Brentford have a pair of corners in fast succession, seeking to utilise their peak, however Janelt’s supply sails into the arms of David Raya. To this point, the house aspect have been surprisingly timid, lacking the sting they confirmed within the first 45 minutes.

08:39pm

50 minutes: Arsenal 1 Brentford 0

Good soccer type Brentford in midfield, creating some uncommon house. Janelt finds Kayode with room to run on the correct. He can not discover his teammate with the ball, but it surely pings off Ben White’s head for a nook when there was no Brentford participant close to him.

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Captain Mathias Jensen finds Janelt on the again publish, who sends a weak header in the direction of Raya. Flicking it again throughout purpose to a teammate was a btter choice there.

08:36pm

47 minutes: Arsenal 1 Brentford 0

Play has restarted on the Emirates. Schade is introduced down 40 yards out. Jensen sends a deep ball in, however Pinnock performs it out impotently. The guests are nonetheless on this – and have Igor Thiago wrapped up on the bench – however one feels Arsenal will not be removed from including one other and snuffing out their hopes.

Perhaps this man might add one other.

Mikel Merino, Arsenal’s principal man – Getty Photos/Nigel French

08:32pm

Time for Arsenal to insure Mikel Merino’s brow

08:26pm

Midlands derby mired in mediocrity

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A reasonably boring Midlands derby at a cold Molineux. There was a late sprint of drama with Forest’s disallowed purpose, in what was one other completely ridiculous second for the archives of Var buffoonery.

Right here’s hoping for a extra entertaining second-half.

08:25pm

Premier League half-time scores

Burnley 0 Crystal Palace 1

08:24pm

GOAL!

Brighton 2 Villa 2 (Watkins) Moments earlier than the half-time whistle, Villa are stage. Industrial soccer: a protracted ball from defence finds the onrushing Watkins who slots it previous Verbruggen. The Brighton defence had been asleep, that was far too simple. Effectively-taken from the England worldwide, thoughts.

08:21pm

Half-time: Arsenal 1 Brentford 0

Arsenal might have scored extra. Declan Rice has been near his rampaging finest, bursting previous defenders and creating possibilities. Noni Madueke and Ben White linked up effectively for the purpose, given a bit an excessive amount of house too typically on the correct flank.

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Brentford have solely created one likelihood, but it surely led to a elegant save from David Raya, nearly point-blank, to disclaim Schade.

08:19pm

VAR can get within the bin

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An agonising five-minute delay there earlier than Forest’s purpose was dominated out. Dan Ndoye was clearly impeding the view of Wolves goalkeeper Sam Johnstone, so why did it take referee Tim Robinson so lengthy to determine?

Why did he even have to verify his monitor? Why did the Var Rob Jones not inform him instantly? I hate Var and at all times will. It’s ruined soccer. Get it within the bin.

08:18pm

45+3 minutes: Arsenal 1 Brentford 0

Within the final of three minutes of added time, Kayode sends in a few harmful lengthy throws, however Calafiori helps to clear the traces earlier than the right-back crosses into Row Z. And that’s half-time.

08:17pm

GOAL!

Burnley 0 Crystal Palace 1 (Munoz) On the stroke of half-time, Daniel Munoz has headed the Londoners in entrance, rising effectively six yards from the again publish. Dubravka had no likelihood. After dropping their unbeaten league house document on the weekend, here’s a likelihood for Oliver Glasner’s aspect to inflict some ache on their travels.

08:15pm

44 minutes: Arsenal 1 Brentford 0

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An damage to a different centre-back is the very last thing Arsenal wanted, given the continued absences of William Saliba and Gabriel Magalhaes. The excellent news is that Saliba will not be far off from making a return, however Cristhian Mosquera’s elimination nonetheless provides a layer of complication tonight. Jurrien Timber, normally the right-back, is on at centre-back in his place.

08:14pm

Forest purpose dominated out by VAR

After an interminable verify by the powers that be, an Igor Jesus header has been dominated out at Molineux. Wolves are hanging on. It took 5 minutes for the referee to make the decision, pricey me.

08:12pm

42 minutes: Arsenal 1 Brentford 0

Mikel Merino apologises to his team-mates with a smile after taking the ball effectively on the spin and firing effectively extensive from 25 yards out. It was value a go, however removed from the perfect execution.

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Jensen is penalised for handball in midfield. As Mosquera sits on the turf with an damage subject and a anxious expression, there’s a temporary breather. Arsenal are already lacking Gabriel and Saliba on the again, they don’t want one other man within the therapy room.

Timber → Mosquera

08:09pm

GOAL!

Brighton 2 Aston Villa 1 (Watkins) This one is way from over. Fed by Maatsen, Ollie Watkins slotted a purpose, that may do wonders for his confidence, from the six-yard field. One other messy purpose, however Emery’s aspect are again on this.

08:08pm

38 minutes: Arsenal 1 Brentford 0

Merino and Rice hyperlink up effectively, seeing the marauding midfielder hare down the left. It’s a nice ball in from the England worldwide for Madueke, sliding in, however his shot comes off a Brentford leg for a nook. Vigilant defending.

08:06pm

36 minutes: Arsenal 1 Brentford 0

Calafiori pinches the ball off Kayode to stifle a counter-attack, drawing a roar from the Arsenal devoted. The house aspect look good worth for a second purpose earlier than the break, linking up neatly in midfield. Arteta has drilled them effectively. Sixty-six per cent possession to this point too.

08:03pm

32 minutes: Arsenal 1 Brentford 0

Odegaard performs a nook quick to Madueke, however he fails to beat the primary man. Nonetheless, Arsenal recycle and Odegaard spots the run of Rice, back-heeling into his path. He drives ahead into the field, with Van den Berg attentive and sliding to dam his shot-cross.

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One other nook, and Madueke can not beat the primary man once more.

08:01pm

GOAL!

Brighton 2 Aston Villa 0 (Torres og) A mountain to climb for high-flying Villa as their Spanish defender scores an personal purpose from a Hinshelwood effort. Emery’s males will not be having fun with their night by the seaside (effectively, Falmer is shut sufficient).

08:00pm

Wolves v Forest is goalless to this point

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Spectacular pre-match lights show at Molineux, however nothing on the sphere to match it but. Each groups are struggling to seek out fluency and the standard is reasonably low. Wolves actually look extra organised underneath their new head coach Rob Edwards.

07:58pm

28 minutes: Arsenal 1 Brentford 0

Raya lives dangerously on the again, enjoying in shut quarters to Zubimendi as Schade and one other Brentford attacker trouble him. He will get the ball away, then Madueke is deemed to have fouled Henry as he leaves him for mud on the correct and heads in the direction of the purpose. The house followers howl their displeasure on the contentious refereein name.

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Then, there may be one other flowing Arsenal transfer. Calafiori finally ends up on the correct, backheeling a ball on the byline again to White. He tries to arrange Martinelli, who shoots over. Brentford’s defenders will breathe a sigh of aid about that one.

07:55pm

25 minutes: Arsenal 1 Brentford 0

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David Raya doesn’t should do a lot shot-stopping as of late however one of many causes he’s so cherished by Arsenal’s coaches is his capability to remain alert always. That was a world-class save towards his former membership.

07:54pm

23 minutes: Arsenal 1 Brentford 0

Each outfield participant was concerned within the opener. Mikel Arteta little question loved that.

07:51pm

21 minutes: Arsenal 1 Brentford 0

Kevin Schade exhibits his tempo and Mosquera is equal, getting his physique in the best way to place the ball out for a nook. A much better supply, forcing Raya to punch it away. Straight to Ouattara, however Ben White places his physique on the road to dam for a nook.

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Then Schade rattles the crossbar with a booming header from Janelt’s ball in! Raya obtained finger-tips on that, nice goalkeeping. That likelihood will rightly increase Brentford spirits although.

07:48pm

18 minutes: Arsenal 1 Brentford 0

Noni Madueke almost makes it two, utilizing his quick toes to bounce and transfer previous a few Brentford defenders. His shot is straight at Kelleher, who repels it. Perhaps Thomas Tuchel is watching this on the telly…

A minute later, White finds a yard or two down the correct however can solely shoot into the aspect netting. A lot of the Arsenal ahead play is flowing down the correct aspect with this English duo.

07:46pm

15 minutes: Arsenal 1 Brentford 0

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Noni Madueke has made an excellent begin to this sport and it’s his flick, to the overlapping Ben White, that actually opens up the Brentford defence. Ben White is making his first league begin since the opening weekend of the season and that cross was a reminder of his capability. As for Mikel Merino, effectively… that’s what he does. Who wants Viktor Gyokeres?!

07:45pm

GOAL! Brighton 1 Aston Villa 0

Over on the Amex, Jan Paul van Hecke has bundled within the opener for the house aspect from a cross. It was scrappy, with our bodies all over the place, and wanted a VAR assessment, however all of them depend.

07:42pm

GOAL!

Arsenal 1 Brentford 0 (Merino) Who else however aerial dominator Mikel Merino? Arsenal are purring.

It was all too simple, White and Madueke linking up effectively once more on the correct. The best-back obtained the run on his marker, Madueke performed it not far away and Merino leapt highest to nod White’s cross into the again of the web.

07:39pm

9 minutes: Arsenal 0 Brentford 0

Madueke and White mix fantastically on the correct, sashaying a 1-2 which provides the right-back house. Nonetheless, when he might have shot, he ops to go in, hoping for a greater finisher to get on the tip of it… straight to a grateful Van den Berg, who clears.

The ex-Chelsea man has already had a few runs at his man tonight on the correct, he’ll look to trigger some havoc.

07:36pm

6 minutes: Arsenal 0 Brentford 0

Schade clears his traces close to the again publish and Madueke fouls Yarmoliuk, giving Brentford an opportunity to place the house aspect underneath stress. White wallops into the stands of the left touchline, permitting Kayode to ship his catapult-like throw. Calafiori rises above Ajer, and now it’s the west Londoners’ first nook of the sport.

Jensen swings it in. Out on the total, an excessive amount of on it for any participant to get a head to it. Should do higher subsequent time.

07:34pm

4 minutes: Arsenal 0 Brentford 0

Calafiori nearly finds Rice down the road, however Pinnock is sharp and clears again to his goalkeeper. As you’d count on, Arsenal are retaining the ball effectively. The Italian left-back wins the match’s first nook, enjoying the ball off a Brentford leg.

We all know how harmful Arsenal are from set-pieces, Brentford will too…

07:32pm

1 min: Arsenal 0 Brentford 0

After a rousing rendition of “North London Endlessly” from the house followers, Brentford kick off, enjoying in pale blue shirt and shorts, kicking proper to left. They work the best way again to Kelleher who pumps it lengthy, straight to the house crew who can play out from the again.

I anticipated a 3-5-2 formation from Brentford, but it surely resembles a 4-4-2, with Kayode maybe in a position to drop ahead or again if wanted.

07:29pm

Goalless draw? Don’t depend on it

The gamers are out on the pristine Emirates turf, shaking fingers earlier than shifting into huddles at their respective ends. Anticipate motion tonight if historical past is something to go by: within the 22 earlier encounters between Arsenal and Brentford, the scoreline has by no means been 0-0.

07:25pm

Kick-off in 5 minutes

A reminder of these groups as they line up within the Emirates Stadium tunnel:

Arsenal Raya; White, Mosquera, Hincapie, Calafiori; Odegaard, Zubimendi, Rice; Madueke, Merino, Martinelli. Substitutes Arrizabalaga, Saka, Gabriel Jesus, Eze, Timber, Gyokeres, Norgaard, Nwaneri, Lewis-Skelly.

Brentford Kelleher; Kayode, van den Berg, Pinnock; Ajer, Janelt, Yarmolyuk, Ouattara, Jensen; Henry, Schade. Substitutes Valdimarsson, Henderson, Thiago, Onyeka, Collins, Lewis-Potter, Damsgaard, Arthur, Donovan.

Referee Tony Harrington (Cleveland)

07:24pm

With each defeat, Wolves edge nearer to creating undesirable historical past

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Right here is one other scary statistic for Wolves followers: Derby County had 4 extra factors than Wolves at this stage of their horrific 2007/08 season.

Wolves have solely put two factors on the board to this point and there are already supporters fearing that Derby’s undesirable document – of a complete 11 – could possibly be crushed.

Certainly not? If it was to occur, there would by no means be extra damning proof of the decline underneath Wolves house owners Fosun.

07:20pm

David Raya, a well-known face for visiting supporters

David Raya spent 4 years at Brentford, making 161 appearances and serving to them to turn out to be a longtime Premier League power.

He and fellow alumnus Christian Norgaard must be well-received by each units of followers, however any “Bees” followers are welcome to right me within the feedback…

David Raya narrows his eyes by the rain throughout the warm-up – Arsenal FC/David Value

07:17pm

Emi Martinez injured within the warm-up, Marco Bizot begins in purpose

Villa will likely be with out their influential Argentinian shot-stopper although.  Information is simply coming by that Martinez was injured within the warm-up, so the Dutchman is drafted in.

07:14pm

Aston Villa’s purple patch

Unai Emery’s males can not cease profitable and they’re gaining admirers for his or her spectacular means of doing it, scoring over half their objectives exterior the field. Brighton away will likely be a check of their mettle. Win tonight and Villa might go as much as third, relying on how Chelsea fare within the 8.15pm kick-off towards Leeds United.

Liverpool v Sunderland is the opposite late sport. Whereas it’s trying they won’t replicate final season’s successes, Arne Slot’s crew are solely eighth and never out of the hunt but.

07:08pm

An unforgiving Christmas schedule

It’s little shock that each managers have made a number of adjustments. Recent legs and minds are onerous to return by: beginning tonight, Arsenal are set to play 4 video games within the subsequent 11 days and eight in complete this month.

Either side will likely be motion within the Carabao Cup quarter-finals, stretching assets additional. Simply the six matches for Brentford this month. Simple peasy.

07:00pm

The groups in black and white

Arsenal Raya; White, Mosquera, Hincapie, Calafiori; Odegaard, Zubimendi, Rice; Madueke, Merino, Martinelli. Substitutes Arrizabalaga, Saka, Gabriel Jesus, Eze, Timber, Gyokeres, Norgaard, Nwaneri, Lewis-Skelly.

Brentford Kelleher; Kayode, van den Berg, Pinnock; Ajer, Janelt, Yarmolyuk, Ouattara, Jensen; Henry, Schade. Substitutes Valdimarsson, Henderson, Thiago, Onyeka, Collins, Lewis-Potter, Damsgaard, Arthur, Donovan.

Referee Tony Harrington (Cleveland)

06:56pm

An opportunity for Merino so as to add to this tally tonight

06:52pm

Mikel Arteta pre-match: ‘You must be prepared for every thing’

“To start with, we have now to steer ourselves after which demand individuals to do the identical. Clearly, the quantity of video games we’re enjoying has penalties, some gamers had been unable to coach yesterday and we want health.

[On Ben White starting] We’ve had Jurrien being distinctive, that’s the principal purpose, he had sure video games the place he was unavailable. Tonight, Ben has a possibility and we all know he can play nice video games too.

[On opponents Henderson and Thiago starting on the bench] It’s one thing regular within the Premier League, they’re in all probability going to vary the formation as effectively. You must be prepared for every thing on this league.”

Mikel Arteta arrives pre-match – Arsenal FC/David Value

06:48pm

No Thiago, no drawback?

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It could possibly be argued that Brentford’s 4 finest gamers are all on the bench tonight: Igor Thiago, Mikkel Damsgaard, Jordan Henderson and Nathan Collins.

They are going to nonetheless provide severe attacking risk, although. Their two ahead gamers, Dango Ouattara and Kevin Schade, are each extraordinarily fast. Anticipate some fast counter-attacks from these two.

06:46pm

Brentford supervisor Keith Andrews’ pre-match ideas

“I really feel it’s proper: powerful week, powerful video games, the squad depth we have now provides us the luxurious of creating adjustments. In the end, the place we’re at as a squad, the competitors for locations, I really feel it’s the proper crew to start out the sport. Invariably, it gained’t be the crew that finishes it.

I really feel there’s a actual calmness round our squad in the beginning, a confidence about what we’re attempting to do and obtain.

[On the decision to put Thiago on the bench]Thiago is having an incredible season, particularly off the again of final yr’s damage. He has actually taken the division by storm. We’re enjoying a barely totally different means, Dango [Ouattara] and Kev [Schade] have sure qualities we are going to attempt to expose. We now have totally different strengths in our armoury we are going to look to utilise tonight.”

06:41pm

Odegaard’s first begin in two months

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Mikel Arteta has an unlimited squad this season and he has chosen to make use of it tonight, with star attackers Bukayo Saka and Eberechi Eze each given a relaxation. They’re on the bench.

Because of this Martin Odegaard begins within the midfield, for the primary time since he was injured in early October. On prime type, the Arsenal captain is the crew’s finest participant. He will likely be determined to indicate his finest tonight after such a disrupted marketing campaign to this point.

06:39pm

Christmas is coming, however there will likely be no items tonight

Mikel Merino arrives on the Emirates Stadium – Arsenal FC/Alex Burstow

06:33pm

Forest not out of the woods but

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There’s a first league begin for Forest’s £37.5m document signing Omari Hutchinson tonight. Hutchinson has impressed on a quantity of events as an alternative and is rewarded for his menacing cameo towards Brighton on Sunday with a spot within the beginning XI.

Sean Dyche will likely be demanding a response after that 2-0 loss to Brighton, with Forest nonetheless peering nervously over their shoulders on the relegation zone.

06:32pm

Will Wolves finish their barren run tonight?

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It’s 221 days since Wolves final secured a victory within the Premier League. That embarrassing document is simply one of many many horrendous statistics that go away the membership backside of the desk and, seemingly, already doomed.

Rob Edwards has insisted his gamers should retain hope of the best of nice escapes – and this might absolutely be essentially the most unlikely Houdini act ever. Can they finish a run of seven defeats in a row tonight?

06:28pm

Thiago on subs bench as Brentford make 5 adjustments

Enjoying one of many massive beasts of the Premier League, Keith Andrews appears set to play three on the again and 5 in entrance of them. Which means a really totally different outfield set-up to the one which noticed them beat Burnley 3-1. In come Henry, Pinnock and Ajer on the again, whereas Yarmolyuk and Janelt shore up midfield.

Surprisingly, red-hot Igor Thiago is the person sacrificed, beginning on the bench.

06:22pm

Three adjustments for Arsenal

As Mikel Arteta rotates his aspect, Ben White will get a uncommon Premier League begin forward of Jurrien Timber. Martin Odegaard slots in for Eze in midfield and Noni Madueke is available in for Saka.

06:17pm

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06:15pm

Match preview: Arsenal hunt house comforts in London derby

Good night and welcome to our dwell protection of the Premier League match between Arsenal and Brentford.

Mikel Arteta has referred to as the match “very important” and “large”, asking Arsenal followers to be “like animals” on the Emirates Stadium tonight. Although he didn’t specify which explicit ones (Sloths? Honey badgers? Sharks?), we are able to assume he felt the necessity for a rallying cry and a bear pit ambiance. In any case, the runaway league leaders betrayed weariness of their on the weekend, outplayed at instances by ten males.

Nonetheless, a return to house comforts bodes effectively: Arsenal haven’t misplaced a league match on the Emirates this season, whereas opponents Brentford have been crushed in 5 of their six away league video games this yr. The west Londoners have solely crushed Arsenal as soon as within the final 87 years – of their very first Premier League sport in August 2021 when Sergi Canos and Christian Norgaard (now with Arsenal) scored in a 2-0 house win. Their former captain could have a component to play tonight; Brentford’s former goalkeeper David Raya absolutely will.

Raya and his defence will likely be cautious of the necessity to cease Brentford’s free-wheeling ahead Igor Thiago, who has 11 objectives from 13 this season, his contributions instrumental in firing Brentford to twelfth in a jam-packed mid-table. He and Dango Ouattara have gelled effectively, serving to Keith Andrews to regular the ship after dropping key gamers Mbeumo and Wissa in the summertime.

Gabriel is about to be out, William Saliba has an damage niggle so could not make the beginning XI; Leandro Trossard can be in a race towards time, fitness-wise.

Kick-off is at 7.30pm GMT; the line-ups are on the best way. I will even be overlaying the opposite 7.30pm kick-offs with common updates right here. Allow us to see if any sport can presumably match as much as the yesterday:

Brighton & Hove Albion v Aston Villa

Wolverhampton Wanderers v Nottingham Forest