Arsenal are back in the Premier League as they take on Patrick Vieira’s Crystal Palace on Monday.
The Gunners started the season really poorly but in the past few weeks, Mikel Arteta has managed to somewhat steady the ship, winning three out of their previous four league games.
But they still find themselves 13th on the table and Palace are just one spot below them thanks to their back-to-back draws vs Brighton and Leicester City.
The Eagles showed real grit and determination against Leicester which has prompted many to believe that they could cause an upset at the Emirates Stadium as well. Pundit Michael Owen though begs to differ simply because of one reason.
The pundit wrote for BetVictor: “All credit to Mikel Arteta and Arsenal as they seem to have turned their season around.
“I don’t think the performances have been fantastic, but they badly needed wins and that’s now 10 points from 12. A win here and they can begin to start thinking about a top-six push.
“Palace have drawn their last two but showed loads of character to come back from two down to draw with Leicester last time. Vieira is doing a good job but still needs to claim a few more wins.
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“I’m sure it’ll be a special day for Vieira to manage against Arsenal, I just don’t think his side will have enough quality. I think Arsenal will narrowly edge it.”
Arsenal have shown great resilience to climb out of the relegation zone and move towards the top half of the table. But there’s a big chance they could falter against Palace on Monday.
Palace have built a lot of confidence thanks to their recent performances and with Granit Xhaka out injured, there’s a big question mark over Arsenal’s midfield.
"He is an Arsenal legend and I hope he gets the reception he deserves for what he did for the club, not only as a player but also what he transmitted as a person."
Mikel Arteta's been discussing Patrick Vieira ahead of our match against @CPFC 👇
— Arsenal (@Arsenal) October 14, 2021
Lokonga is likely to start alongside Thomas Partey so if Crystal Palace can somehow manage to take control of the midfield, there’s every chance they head back home with all three points.
We personally think the Gunners will have to rely on individual brilliance to see this one through as an upset is very much on the cards.
