Mikel Arteta has told his pre-match press conference – as per the club’s website – that Aston Villa “haven’t changed much” over the summer ahead of Wednesday night’s clash between Steven Gerrard‘s side and Arsenal.
Arteta will be hoping his Arsenal side maintain their 100% record in the Premier League, at this early stage. They have impressed so far, topping the table with four wins from four against Palace, Leicester, Bournemouth and Fulham.
Villa, on the other hand, have endured a poor start to the campaign. Steven Gerrard is under increasing pressure, after securing just three points from a possible 12. They have suffered defeats to Bournemouth, Palace and West Ham.
Arsenal boss Arteta gave his verdict of Villa ahead of Wednesday night’s fixture. He says that Gerrard’s side “have not changed much” from last season’s clash between the two sides. Arteta is expecting a physical challenge on Wednesday.
“Since we played each other they haven’t changed that much. We’ll play towards the games and prepare as well as possible. They’re a really physical team with a lot of presence, really good at using the box and it will be tough.”
Arteta says Aston Villa ‘haven’t changed much’ ahead of Arsenal clash
Arsenal will be strong favourites to win this clash. Not only have Villa been poor, but they have also lost one of their marquee signings in Diego Carlos. The change in captain might have had an affect, while Gerrard chops and changes.
The Gunners, meanwhile, have been excellent. The new signings have all started well, instantly improving the Gunners. Gabriel Jesus and Oleksandr Zinchenko look excellent in an Arsenal shirt. Martin Odegaard is clearly, loving captaincy.
Arsenal also boast home advantage and in the previous fixture, the Gunners cruised to a 3-1 win. Jacob Ramsey only managed a consolation for Gerrard’s side. So, it looks as if Arsenal have a real chance to make it five from five.
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