Arsenal will have to wait until Monday for their Premier League return, when they will face Sheffield United away. The Gunners are, of course, favourites, but their past form at Bramall Lane should worry some fans.
Sheffield United v Arsenal Preview
Team News
Arsenal will travel to Sheffield United with almost an entirely fit squad. Alexandre Lacazette has just returned from an ankle injury and Unai Emery suggests both he and Kieran Tierney could play in the match.
Both Rob Holding and Hector Bellerin are in full training, but were out for very long spells, so they are questionable for the fixture. Finally, the only omission is Reiss Nelson, who went off injured against Standard Liege and will miss the remainder of the month.
Chris Wilder also has some fitness issues to deal with. David McGoldrick is dealing with a groin injury which kept him out for four matches before the international break.
Meanwhile, Scotland duo John Fleck and Oli McBurnie both withdrew from their national side due to injury. All three are doubtful for the clash with Arsenal.
Worrying History
Arsenal have a woeful record away to Sheffield United. Their last league trip to Bramall Lane came in 2006 and ended with a 1-0 win for the hosts, who finished the match with Phil Jagielka as an emergency goalkeeper.
In fact, the Gunners are winless in four Premier League matches away to the Blades. The were held to three draws over the years plus the aforementioned defeat. Arsenal did, however, secure an away win in the League Cup at the venue in 2007.
Prediction
Although history is against Arsenal, neutrals should expect them to earn three points against Sheffield United. The Blades have been anonymous at home this season, losing their last three Premier League matches at Bramall Lane, netting just the once.
Plus, the Gunners will see a few faces return to the squad. Tierney is an instant upgrade on Sead Kolasinac at left-back, while Lacazette can’t hurt an attack which struggles to create chances.
Even with a porous defence, expect to see Arsenal secure three points.
Predicted score: Sheffield United 1-2 Arsenal
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