Preview: Arsenal v Swans
Swansea City go to Arsenal this afternoon looking to bounce back after home defeats against Leicester City and Manchester United.
Paul Clement’s men know they will face a stern examination against a Gunners side who have been in fine form at home this season.
But the Swans have a fine record at the Emirates, where they have won three times and drawn once in six previous Premier League visits.
Another reason for optimism is the Swans’ away record so far this season.
Clement’s side have lost only one of their four Premier League games on the road this season, while there were also Carabao Cup victories at MK Dons and Reading.
The Swans have had some good results when visiting some of the big clubs since Clement took charge.
They memorably won at Liverpool and drew at Old Trafford last season, while there was also a cruel last-gasp loss at Manchester City when the visitors deserved better.
And earlier this term, Clement’s side went to Tottenham Hotspur and claimed a creditable draw.
However, Arsenal have been very impressive on their own patch so far in 2017-18.
They have won all four of their home league games, against Leicester, Bournemouth, West Brom and Brighton, as well cup fixtures against Cologne, Doncaster and Norwich.
Team news
Arsenal striker Danny Welbeck is out along with long-term injury victim Santi Cazorla and second-choice keeper David Ospina.
But Arsene Wenger has plenty of good options to pick from, including a couple of youngsters who impressed in the Carabao Cup win over Norwich in midweek.
The Swans have a handful of injury headaches, with Martin Olsson likely to miss out after injuring his hamstring on Tuesday.
Wilfried Bony (hamstring), Renato Sanches (thigh) and Kyle Bartley (knee) are definitely sidelined.
What they said
Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger: “At home the speed of our passing will be absolutely important to create chances. Ozil, Alexis and Lacazette were very efficient at Everton, and they have to be efficient on Saturday.”
Swans boss Paul Clement: “Arsenal had a really good victory at Everton last weekend and we know we will not have as much ball as we would like. We’ll have to defend really well collectively and then look to convert a couple of chances.”
Last six meetings
14.1.17 Swans 0 Arsenal 4
15.10.16 Arsenal 3 Swans 2
2.3.16 Arsenal 1 Swans 2
31.10.15 Swans 0 Arsenal 3
11.5.15 Arsenal 0 Swans 1
9.11.14 Swans 2 Arsenal 1
Pre-match stats
800 – Today is a landmark game for Wenger, for it is his 800th Premier League fixture as Arsenal boss.
3 – The Swans have won three times at the Emirates since they were promoted to the top flight. Only Chelsea (four) have managed more Premier League away wins at Arsenal’s current home.
