Arsenal go in to Saturday’s game with West Bromwich Albion at the Emirates knowing that three points will take them back into the top four of the Premier League.
With Chelsea and Tottenham Hotspur not playing until Sunday, the Gunners have the chance to put pressure on their rivals in their pursuit for Champions League qualification for next season.
The game will come too soon for Jack Wilshere and Theo Walcott, who should return for next weekend’s trip to Norwich, though Nacho Monreal should feature after recovering from a knee problem.
Arsene Wenger’s men arguably have the more favourable run in of all those around them, with bookmakers having them at odds on to make the top four.
Meanwhile, assistant coach Steve Bould has insisted that last month’s Champions League victory at Bayern Munich has given the club self-belief for the remainder of the campaign.
Arsenal exited Europe on the away goals after winning 2-0 at the Allianz Arena three and a half weeks ago, but have gone on to take maximum points from the following two Premier League fixtures.
In fact, the Gunners have won four of the last five fixtures, with their only defeat coming in the North London derby at White Hart Lane a month ago.
