Ex-Arsenal midfielder Paul Merson is backing his former club to win against Crystal Palace for the second time in the space of a few days at Selhurst Park this weekend.
Writing in his column for Sportskeeda, Merson said the fact that the Gunners managed to beat the Eagles with what was effectively their second string in the Carabao Cup should hold them in good stead:
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“I have to back Arsenal here because their reserve team just beat Crystal Palace in the cup game. That just shows the gulf in class between these sides at the moment. I expect this to be an entertaining game though.
“Palace will have a go at Arsenal since they are playing in front of their own fans at Selhurst Park. The longer the game goes on at 0-0, the tougher it will get for Arsenal. Let’s not forget that Palace have recently turned a corner in the Premier League with their draw against Manchester City and win over Brighton…”
“Arsenal need to keep winning if they are to put pressure on Liverpool and Chelsea. I expect them to win but this will not be a walk in the park.”
What score has Merson predicted?
The Sky Sports pundit has gone with a 2-1 win to Arsenal, which is a result that will undoubtedly please supporters.
Palace showed on Wednesday evening that they are a tricky opponent and, as Merson points out, they will be even harder to beat at their own ground, so it would be a big boost for Mikel Arteta’s side if they can secure the three points.
Team news ahead of Crystal Palace v Arsenal
Declan Rice (knock) is likely to be available but there are still doubts over the fitness of both Riccardo Calafiori (groin) and Oleksandr Zinchenko (muscular). Ben White and Takehiro Tomiyasu (both knee) are ruled out.
Eagles boss Oliver Glasner will be without Daniel Munoz, who is suspended, while Chadi Riad (match fitness), Matheus Franca (groin), Adam Wharton (groin) and Rob Holding are not expected to be available.
Find out who is in Arsenal’s first-team squad for the 2024/2025 season here