Jamie Redkanpp believes that Christian Benteke can cause trouble for Arsenal’s centre-backs on Monday night.
Crystal Palace’s Christian Benteke heads at goal
Crystal Palace face Arsenal in a crucial Premier League clash on Monday night at Selhurst Park. Both clubs have different priorities.
Palace are just three points above 18th placed Swansea City. Although Sam Allardyce’s side have played two games less than the Swans, the danger is not completely over. A victory against Arsenal would give them a massive lift.
The Gunners, on the other hand, are seven points behind fourth placed Manchester City, having played two games less than the Citizens. Arsene Wenger has prioritised finishing in top four this season, and every game from here on is a must win for them.
Former Liverpool player and football pundit, Jamie Redknapp, believes Christian Benteke could be the danger man for Arsenal.
The 26-year-old Belgian striker has scored 11 goals in the Premier League this season, and heads into this fixture on the back of two goals in successive games against Chelsea and Southampton.
Arsenal have a tendency to struggle against teams who play direct football. Redknapp believes that Benteke’s physical presence in the box could cause trouble for Arsenal’s centre-backs. He wrote in his column for the Daily Mail:
“The Belgian has the bit between his teeth once more. Arsenal will not fancy facing him. Benteke should be urging wingers Wilfried Zaha and Andros Townsend to get the ball in the box as often as possible. If they give him the service, Benteke can cause Arsenal’s centre backs problems.”
Benteke brings a different quality to the side. The Belgian is a good goalscorer, but he needs proper supply in the box. If Zaha and Townsend can provide him good supply, he can cause huge problems for the Arsenal defence.
Crystal Palace’s Christian Benteke
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