Manchester United and Arsenal both let in five in the Capital One Cup midweek and last season's corresponding fixture finished 8-2 to United, so goals are expected when Arsenal travel to Old Trafford on Saturday.
United moved to within a point of English Premier League leaders Chelsea with their win at Stamford Bridge on Sunday, a victory that forward Javier Hernandez believes could be the turning point of their season.
"It was vital to get the three points at a very tough place. We are in there in the fight to win (the Premier League)," the Mexico international said on Thursday.
"It's important to take points off your rivals like Liverpool, Chelsea and Arsenal next week," he said.
"Next week is just as important. It's a good start to the season.
We've obviously had a couple of defeats but we've bounced back and we're still in a good position, so we can be happy."
Arsenal are six points further back and while Tuesday's match at Reading threatened embarrassment as they went 4-0 down, the way they fought back to win 7-5 speaks volumes for their strength of character.
"I don't think anyone here believed that we could come back. But we did it and we deserved to win," said Arsenal forward Andrey Arshavin.
"We showed spirit because you cannot come back from 4-0 down if you don't have spirit."
Reading, meanwhile, must pick themselves up as they look for their first league win of the season with a trip to fellow strugglers Queen's Park Rangers.
QPR owner Tony Fernandes insisted manager Mark Hughes will not face the sack if he fails to win.
"Mark has my backing and the shareholders," Fernandes said. "We need a little luck and no injuries. What's written in the press is all rubbish.
"I honestly believe we have one of the best managers in the Premier League. And we are in for the long term. Whatever happens. We love QPR."
League leaders Chelsea go to Swansea City, while champions Manchester City are away at West Ham United, who are unbeaten at home this season.
Sunderland, having drawn six of eight league games this season, have a vital game at home against an out-of-form Aston Villa, with fans showing signs of impatience after Tuesday's Capital One Cup exit to Middlesbrough.
Tottenham Hotspur host Wigan Athletic, while the big game on Sunday sees Liverpool host Newcastle United.
Everton go to Fulham, and Southampton travel to West Bromwich Albion on Monday.
No comments:
Post a Comment