23.10. (Sun) 14:30 Arsenal - Stoke

PROBABLE LINEUPS

ARSENAL Szczesny Jenkinson, Koscielny, Mertesacker, Santos Song, Arteta, Ramsey Walcott, Van Persie, Gervinho

STOKE CITY   Begovic Huth, Woodgate, Shawcross, Higgingbotham Pennant, Delap, Whelan, Etherington Crouch, Jones

Injuries picked up by full-backs Bacary Sagna and Kieran Gibbs are almost certain to push Arsene Wenger into playing Andre Santos and Carl Jenkinson, who have been rotated with the two missing defenders often this season. Long-term absentees are the Frenchman's only real concern at the moment, with no new niggling injuries picked up against Marseille during the week.

A thigh strain to Andy Wilkinson will probably keep him out of the clash at the Emirates, but Tony Pulis has enough strength at the back to cope with the absence. Wilson Palacios is also due a return from injury, but it is doubtful he will be risked this weekend unless he comes off of the bench late on. Danny Higgingbotham could make his first start since April.

DID YOU KNOW?

• Arsenal’s total of 12 goals this season is twice the amount of opponents Stoke.

• Stoke have only conceded eight goals so far this season, less than half of the amount let in by Arsenal. Only Manchester United, Manchester City and Newcastle have let in less.

• Stoke have only managed one goal in their last three visits to the Emirates, and that was a Ricardo Fuller penalty.

• Van Persie has scored 23 times in the 25 games he has played in during 2011.

• Stoke have never drawn a Premier League game on their travels to London, winning three times and losing 12 games.

• Stoke have the highest percentage of goals from set pieces in the league with 67 per cent, yet Arsenal have a lowly 8 per cent.

• Arsenal have never failed to score against Stoke in the Premier League since the Potters were promoted in 2008.

• Arsenal have won five out of their last six games in all competitions.

Prediction
Editor's Prediction

Arsenal 3-0  Stoke