Arsenal have struggled against the Potters in recent seasons, and that trend looks set to continues tomorrow.
Arsenal beat a dogged Southampton side thanks to a last minute Alexis Sanchez goal on Wednesday, and they face another tough test on Saturday against Stoke City.
The Gunners have now won three games in a row, but that run is slightly deceptive, and Arsenal will face three major obstacles if they are to overcome Stoke.
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Size mismatch
The most obvious mismatch between the teams is physical. Stoke are the tallest team in the Premier League; and Arsenal the smallest. Mark Hughes has reduced the directness of passing that Stoke were known for under Tony Pulis, but his side are still tall and strong, while Arsenal’s technicians are much smaller.
Poor record and mental weakness
The Gunners have only won once at the Brittania Stadium since 1981, and their terrible record is down to more than just a vulnerability to Stoke’s style of play. Arsenal have developed a mental block after so many poor results against the Potters, and always seem to play within themselves there. Arsene Wenger doesn’t seem to know how to break this barrier.
Alexis Sanchez tiredness
The Chilean was described as in the “red zone” in terms of fitness by Arsene Wenger today, and the Frenchman will be sorely tempted to rest Sanchez. Unfortunately, the former Barcelona player is one of the few Arsenal players with both the physical and mental strength to take Stoke on. Even against lesser teams the North Londoners have consistently turned to the winger, and without him operating to the best of his abilities, they don’t stand a chance.
Reliance on late goals
Scoring late goals is great in many ways. It shows your team are fit and determined to the end, and don’t give up, even when they are behind. Arsenal lead the league in late goals, having scored seven in the last five minutes in the Premier League this season.
But this also reveals a problem. Why have Chelsea and Manchester City not scored more late goals? Because by 60 minutes they’re generally well ahead and comfortable, and can see the game out.
Arsenal, meanwhile, are relying on last minute goals to win them games, and that’s not a good habit to get into. Stoke are a tough side, and Arsenal will be worn out by the end of the 90 minutes. They shouldn’t expect their fortunate run of injury time winners to continue.