The Gunners are looking to extend their winning streak to eight games as they recovered from the 6-3 defeat at the hands of Manchester city in December to claim seven consecutive wins in all competitions. They defeated Coventry City 4-0 in the FA Cup last week and have conceded just two goals in their last eight matches. Arsenal have not lost to Southampton since 2002 but playing at St Mary's is a tough test for any team. Wenger welcomed the return of Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain who made his first Arsenal start since August against Coventry following a severe injury.
Lukas Podolski bagged two goals against Coventry, but the Germany forward might be on the bench for Tuesday's match. Mikel Arteta (calf), Aaron Ramsey (thigh), Tomas Rosicky (broken nose) and Thomas Vermaelen (knee) are all set to be back in contention while Abou Diaby and Theo Walcott (both knee) remain long-term absentees.
Southampton are on a good run at St Mary's, having won their last three home games. Striker Guly do Prado warned Arsenal not to expect an easy match after scoring in Saturday's FA Cup win over Yeovil Town. "We get confidence from these wins," he said. "We play for a win in every game, whether it's in the FA Cup or the Premier League. The win against Yeovil will give us confidence for Tuesday night against Arsenal. Now we have to think about that because it's going to be another big, hard game – but we are going to play to win." Rickie Lambert (hamstring) and Artur Boruc (back) are expected to return to action while Victor Wanyama (calf) could also feature for the first time since last month. Striker Pablo Osvaldo is still suspended following a training-ground incident, while Dejan Lovren and Gaston Ramirez (both ankle) remain sidelined.
Here are the odds at Bet365 for Tuesday's match:
Southampton win - 16/5
Draw - 13/5
Arsenal win - 19/20
Your feedback
Please enter your comment.
Your comment is added.
