Arsenal vs Norwich: 5 Things The Gunners Need To Take 3 Points

3. Exploit The Channels And Flanks

arsenal Both Bassong and Turner are centre-halves with experience of being regulars at clubs bigger than Norwich, and when on form can provide a formidable barrier. This is reflected in Norwich having one of the better defensive records in the bottom half. They are also a partnership that will have the physical prowess to deal with Olivier Giroud's threat in the air, so Arsenal need to look elsewhere for weak links, particularly as Johnson and Tettey in midfield are tough characters tracking back. Accordingly, Norwich's full backs, Garrido and Martin are slightly more vulnerable, and with Walcott returning and Cazorla on a good run of goalscoring form, they may be susceptible to Arsenal's movement. Snodgrass and Pilkington work hard, but are not the best defensively, so Sagna and Monreal need to be willing on the overlap to provide the width to pull the Norwich back four out of position. Looking infield, it is the space between the visitors central defenders and full-backs that will be key, particularly that between Turner and Martin, who are not the most nimble or fleet of foot combination. Getting the ball to Cazorla in advanced positions will be key, and there may be an opportunity for Podolski to have a real impact off the bench.
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Matthew Wade , or @lomekian on Twitter. Arsenal, Middlesex Cricket Club and Detroit Red Wings Fan. Professional actor, writer and voice-over artist. Former employment advisor and project manager. See my websites http://edgeofthearea.wordpress.com/ & www.matthewwade.co.uk