Arsenal is set to host Fulham at the Emirates Stadium, with fans eagerly anticipating Bukayo Saka`s return. His hamstring injury in December significantly hampered Arsenal`s title aspirations. Saka`s comeback could reignite Arsenal`s attack, which has been less potent in his absence, scoring 19 goals in 12 Premier League games without him, with only two in the last four matches.
Fulham also has ambitions, aiming for a higher league position. Consecutive league victories before their FA Cup defeat to Crystal Palace have placed them eighth. A win against Arsenal could potentially lift them to sixth. Historically, Fulham hasn`t won in their 31 league visits to Arsenal, but recent encounters have been challenging for Mikel Arteta`s Arsenal, with Fulham securing five points in their last three meetings.
Viewing Information
- Date: Tuesday, April 1
- Location: Emirates Stadium — London
- Odds: Arsenal -250; Draw +333; Fulham +750
Last Meeting
Arsenal faced frustration at Craven Cottage in December. Despite dominating possession and creating chances after Raul Jimenez`s early goal, they only managed a draw. Kai Havertz equalized, but a late goal from Bukayo Saka was controversially disallowed for a marginal offside.
What Arsenal Are Saying
Arteta confirmed Saka`s readiness, stating, `Bukayo is ready to go… He`s pushing because he really wants it. We have respected the timeframe… he`s ready to go. It`s another massive weapon that we have with him… it’s great to have him back.`
Predicted Lineups
Arsenal: David Raya; Jurrien Timber, William Saliba, Gabriel, Myles Lewis-Skelly; Martin Odegaard, Thomas Partey, Declan Rice; Gabriel Martinelli, Mikel Merino, Leandro Trossard
Fulham: Bernd Leno; Timothy Castagne, Joachim Andersen, Calvin Bassey, Antonee Robinson; Sasa Lukic, Sander Berge; Alex Iwobi, Andreas Pereira, Willian; Raul Jimenez
Storylines to Watch
Champions League Focus
With the Premier League title appearing out of reach, Arsenal`s focus might be shifting towards the upcoming Champions League match against Real Madrid. Arteta may consider managing player minutes against Fulham, potentially limiting Saka`s game time and experimenting with the lineup.
Player to Watch
Bukayo Saka
All eyes will be on Bukayo Saka. Before his injury, he was performing at a world-class level. His return could be a game-changer for Arsenal, potentially influencing their Champions League quarterfinal chances. He remains high in the Premier League assist and big chances created charts. His form upon return will be crucial for Arsenal`s ambitions.
Prediction
Arsenal is expected to secure a victory, possibly after a slow start, leveraging their squad depth, including potential impact from substitutes like Ethan Nwaneri, Raheem Sterling, and Saka. Prediction: Arsenal 2, Fulham 1
