Watford vs Arsenal: Preview & Prediction

Watford have been handed a tough start to this campaign, after an away draw at Southampton and a home loss to Antonio Conte’s new Chelsea side.

They will be looking to open their account for the season with a win over Champions League chasing Arsenal at Vicarage Road.

Walter Mazzarri will be looking to further his influence on the side as the club hope to improve on their mid-table finish from last year.

The Hornets hope that new signings Daryl Janmaat and Younes Kaboul will bolster their defensive options as Mazzarri clearly recognizes that the key to success this season will not only lie with the goals of Troy Deeney but also in the number of clean sheets that can be kept.

The Gunners have come under much criticism of late after their recent performances and lack of activity in the transfer market.

Last week’s fixture against Leicester was a solid result for the Champions, however the performance offered little encouragement to Arsenal’s title ambitions.

Arsene Wenger will be hoping to strengthen the side in the next week as it is evident that many supporters feel a strong centre-half and centre-forward are much needed to enhance the side.

This Saturday will be an opportunity for Arsenal to address the problems that were evident in the opening day’s 4-3 defeat to Jurgen Klopp’s Liverpool.

The visitors are still without Wales midfielder Ramsey – Photo: Simon Stacpoole / Offside.

Team News:

New Hornet’s signing Isaac Success is still struggling with a leg injury while Dja Djedje remains sidelined after picking up a foot problem in pre-season.

Arsene Wenger also has plenty to think about after Aaron Ramsey was ruled out until after the international break.

Centre-back pairing Per Mertersacker and Gabriel also won’t feature due to injuries picked up in pre-season, while Alex Iwobi isn’t expected back for a couple of weeks.

League Positions: Watford – 14th; Arsenal – 13th
Last Meeting: Arsenal 4-0 Watford – (April 2, 2016)
League Form: Watford – LDDLL; Arsenal – WDWLD
Key Men: Watford – Troy Deeney; Arsenal – Alexis Sanchez
Shoot Says: Watford 0-1 Arsenal