Analysis:

Arsenal comes into this match with a point to prove after slipping to a 3-0 defeat to Manchester City in their last match even though it was a Carling Cup but it ended their title hopes for one of the trophy this season.

And even though Manchester City won just twice against teams in the top half this season, they will aim to take their frustrations out on Stoke in this match. This match is also something special as it will be Arsene Wenger's 500th with the club.

The good news is that they have tasted success in their last seven fixtures with Stoke at The Emirates. The visitors on the other hand have suffered just one defeat in their last seven games and will be hoping to catch Arsenal offguard.

They have kept back-to-back clean sheets of late and will be looking to secure a third consecutive clean sheet which if they succeed will be their first time in the Premiership.

But coming into this match Stoke have collected maximum points from only one of their last eight games on their travels. Tht did come on their travels as they beat Tottenham 1-0 way back in October.

With regards to the team news, Bacary Sagna is expected to shake off a slight ankle knock to feature but Arsene Wenger is still without a number of first team players. Theo Walcott is out with a hamstring injury, Abou Diaby is still carrying a calf problem, while Alex Song will be forced to watch on from the stands as he serves a one-match suspension.

Kieran Gibbs (metatarsal), Robin van Persie (ankle), Gael Clichy (back), Nicklas Bendtner (hernia) and Johan Djourou (knee) all remain out of this match.

As for Stoke, they have a fully fit squad heading into this match. Dean Whitehead will be unavailable as he sits out a one-game ban, but Ryan Shawcross could be available again after a groin injury. Amdy Faye is out of the side with a back injury which will see him out for sometime.

Take Arsenal to win and give the 1 3/4 ball away here.

Cheers and good luck,
Cruiser

The Pick :

Arsenal to win 2-0

FIXED ODDS BETTING :

Take Arsenal to win here.

HANDICAP BETTING :

Take Arsenal and give the 1 3/4 ball here.