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Football London
Football London
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Elliott Jackson

What the pundits are predicting for Arsenal's Europa League clash with Vitoria SC

Arsenal return to European action on Thursday night as they host Portuguese outfit Vitoria SC.

The Gunners were humbled by Sheffield United on Monday night with Unai Emery coming in for a fair amount of criticism for his team selection at Bramall Lane.

Kieran Tierney, Rob Holding and Hector Bellerin were all left out of the starting XI, so the trio could feature at the Emirates as they bid to build up their fitness from long-term injuries.

As far as the Europa League goes, it's been a great start to Group F for Emery's side.

They have six points from six, scoring seven without reply from their opening two matches.

Sheffield United 1-0 Arsenal: Unai Emery post-match press conference

Vitoria, by contrast, are yet to score in this year's competition and have lost their opening two matches.

A win for the Gunners would all-but secure their place in the knockout round of 32, whilst boosting spirits ahead of Sunday's match against in-form Crystal Palace.

So, how will Arsenal fare at the Emirates? Here's a round-up of what the pundits are saying.

Charlie Nicholas - Sky Sports

"It should be another night where Arsenal can make some changes. We need to see whether Hector Bellerin and Kieran Tierney will be back and I would hope that Emile Smith-Rowe could come in, as well as Joe Willock and Reiss Nelson.

"Will he throw Mesut Ozil into this situation? I think Unai Emery knows Ozil is not training hard enough, so that is why he is not putting him in the team. He is still there so I would play him.

"Alexandre Lacazette could make a return on Thursday and you could play Bukayo Saka down the middle and rest Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang. If Rob Holding is fit, he should come in and play. It will be six or seven changes but I expect Arsenal to get the job done."

Premier League 2019/20 October fixtures

CHARLIE PREDICTS - 3-1

Michael Owen - BetVictor 

"Arsenal have scored seven times without reply in their two group games to date and I expect them to have far too much class for a Portuguese side who currently prop up the table without a point or, indeed, a goal to date.

"The Gunners have real strength in depth and Unai Emery looks sure to shuffle his pack as he looks to go one better in the competition than last season."

Michael’s recommendation:  Arsenal -2 in the handicap

 
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