Arsenal’s injury crisis has turned what should be an easy fixture into a potential banana skin for the Gunners.
Belgian side Anderlecht aren’t in great form , and have drawn five of their eleven games this season; but Arsenal disappointed again at the weekend against Hull. We have identified five ways that they must improve if they are to win in Belgium.
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5) Running Off The Ball
All too often Arsenal are overly concerned with playing the ball around, without making the runs off the ball that can pull opposition defences apart. Alexis Sanchez gives them this ability, and it will be down to him to provide penetration for the Gunners.
4) Protect Their Keeper
With Wojciech Szczesny suspended and David Ospina injured, it looks as though Emiliano Martinez will be in goal for Arsenal. He’s 22 but has very little experience. Arsenal must protect him as much as possible, and prevent Anderlecht from testing him too often with long shots.
3) Defend Solidly
In order to protect their keeper, Arsenal will have to defend well. Their defence is riddled with injuries, and young Calum Chambers must have a good game at centre-back. Flamini will also plays an important part tomorrow night in helping out his back four.
2) Score Early!
The best thing that Arsenal could tomorrow is score early. This will allow them to sit deeper, defend solidly and use the pace of Danny Welbck and Alexis Sanchez to hit Anderlecht on the counter.
1) Score Several!
Arsenal must also take care not to retreat too far if they do score. Manchester City proved tonight that even two goals aren’t enough to sit back on. Arsenal must score three before they think about easing off.