Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the English Premier League match.
Regardless of the line-up Arsenal field in the League Cup, only victory will be acceptable when they face Burnley on Saturday. That’s the weight of responsibility that comes with being title contenders.
Burnley
Burnley sit 16th with three wins, but their energy is usually enough only against sides of similar strength. They beat fellow newcomers Sunderland and Leeds United (both 2:0) and recently earned a comeback victory over bottom-placed Wolves (3:2). At home, Burnley can still make life difficult for stronger teams: Liverpool needed a 95th-minute goal to win, and Wolverhampton might have rescued a draw if not for Martin Dubravka’s late save.
Arsenal
The Slovak goalkeeper could again be Burnley’s main hope, yet even a keeper of Dean Henderson’s calibre could not stop Arsenal pressure earlier in the season when Crystal Palace narrowly lost 0:1 at the Emirates. Arsenal were not particularly bright in their previous away match, but their 1.87 xG turned into Leandro Trossard’s winner against Fulham.
Burnley vs Arsenal Prediction
Burnley may offer resistance, but if Arsenal truly aim to fight for the title, this is exactly the sort of fixture they must win, no matter the circumstances.
