Paul Merson warns Arsenal that Chelsea’s tactics could play into their hands ahead of London derby
Arsenal legend Paul Merson has warned his former club that their tactics might play into Chelsea’s hands ahead of the big London derby on Saturday. Chelsea host Arsenal at Stamford Bridge in a pivotal game for both sides, with the Blues desperate to keep their winning ways up as they find their feet under Mauricio Pochettino.
The Gunners meanwhile have an unbeaten run to maintain and are aiming to go top of the table following their huge victory over Manchester City before the international break. With nine points separating the sides, many expect Mikel Arteta’s team to triumph, especially given his record against the Blues and the fact that Chelsea haven’t beaten Arsenal at home since August 2018.
But Gunners legend Merson doesn’t believe it will be plain sailing for his former club, expressing concern that Chelsea have actually performed better against the ‘bigger’ teams this season, telling Sky Sports: ‘They have not done it against the ‘lesser’ teams.
Chelsea Have Performed Better Against Bigger Teams
Merson believes that Chelsea have been more successful against the bigger teams this season, citing their performance against Liverpool as an example. He believes that Arsenal’s tactics could play into Chelsea’s hands, as they will be expecting the Gunners to come out and attack them. He also believes that Chelsea have an advantage in that they can surprise Arsenal with their team selection.
He said: ‘With where Chelsea are in the league, teams will not want to play them because on their day, they can beat anybody and when Raheem Sterling is playing like he did at Burnley, then he is unplayable. One advantage Chelsea will have is that we virtually know what the Arsenal team is going to be. On the other hand, we have no idea what the Chelsea team will be.’
A Big Game For Both Sides
Merson believes that this game could be a marker for both sides. He believes that if Chelsea can get enough points from their upcoming tough fixtures, then they could be a major threat in the title race. He also believes that a win for Arsenal could make them major players in the title race.
He said: ‘Mauricio Pochettino’s side can kick-start their season with a win. Chelsea had a great result against Burnley last time out, but they now have some unbelievably tough fixtures coming up. If they can get through them and get enough points in those games, then you would have to say they are going to be a threat and they have a chance. But this is also a big game for Arsenal. This can be another marker laid down for them. If they win this game, I’m looking at Arsenal as major, major players.’
Conclusion
This Saturday’s London derby between Chelsea and Arsenal is sure to be an exciting game. Both sides have something to prove and will be looking to get one over on their rivals. Paul Merson has warned Arsenal that their tactics could play into Chelsea’s hands, as the Blues have been more successful against bigger teams this season. He also believes that a win for Arsenal could make them major players in the title race.