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The new year starts with a proper Premier League fixture as Brentford host an Arsenal side looking to kick their attack into high gear. Although the Gunners’ defense has been rock solid this season, they have left a lot to be desired, scoring just once against Ipswich Town and being shut out against Everton. The offensive misery only increases with the amount of time it takes Bukayo Saka will miss after surgery. Although the January transfer window will be open to add reinforcements, none of them will be at Arsenal in time to support them in this transfer window.
Here are our storylines, how to watch the match and more:
How to watch and odds
- Date: Wednesday January 1 | Time: 12:30
- Location: Gtech Community Stadium – Brentford, Middlesex
- TV: USA | Live stream: Fubo TV (Try for free)
- Chances: Brentford +600; Sign +230; Arsenal -230
Storylines
Brentford: Despite Brentford’s strong attack, results have been difficult to come by lately. They defeated Newcastle United at home before going winless in their last four games. It won’t get any easier with Arsenal coming to town in a short week’s time, but to establish themselves as a truly top team, Brentford will need to clean up their defense to win more of these games at home. Ethan Pinnock and Kristoffer Ajer cannot return to help, while Ben Mee also picked up an injury. Goalkeeper Mark Fleken will be a game-time decision, making things even more difficult for Thomas Frank.
Brentford predicted
Arsenal: Raheem Sterling will still be absent for this match, but many of Arsenal’s injury problems are the same ones they have faced. Ben White is still absent along with Saka, while Takehiro Tomiyasu will also be unavailable. Young Myles Lewis-Skelly has been able to take a step in this period, but experience will be needed against tougher opposition such as Brentford.
Arsenal predicted XI: David Raya, Riccardo Calafiori, Gabriel, William Saliba, Jurrien Timber, Declan Rice, Thomas Partey, Martin Odegaard, Gabriel Martinelli, Kai Havertz, Gabriel Jesus
Prediction
Brentford were strong at home, but Arsenal are not a team anyone wants to play without their best defenders available. Choose: Brentford 1, Arsenal 3