Mikel Arteta’s side are two points clear at the top of the table, while Chelsea linger down in sixth place and ten behind Arsenal ahead of this weekend’s London derby.
Arsenal are in fine form and have a decent recent record against the Blues, winning three of the past four league fixtures.They could win three away games in a row against Chelsea for the first time since 1974 should they clinch victory on Sunday.
Graham Potter is hoping to ensure that doesn’t happen, as is Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang who comes up against his former club.
The Chelsea head coach knows it’s a big game that awaits Chelsea, one which the players including Aubameyang will be up for.
“It’s a big game, London derby,” said Potter. “Two good teams, Arsenal are doing really well. The history makes it an interesting one for Auba. The past is the past as far as we are concerned. We are focused on the game and want to play well.
“He’s looking forward to the game. He’s been pretty normal (this week). Come matchday, I’m sure he will be pretty determined.”
Chelsea’s injury list is growing which will give Arsenal confidence. Kepa Arrizabalaga (foot), Ben Chilwell (hamstring), Wesley Fofana (knee), Reece James (knee), Carney Chukwuemeka (hamstring) and N’Golo Kante (hamstring).
Mateo Kovacic returned to training this week and is in contention to face Arsenal, with Edouard Mendy set to start in goal due to Kepa’s absence.
“Kovacic trained on Friday with the team so he’s in contention to featured on Sunday for Chelsea” confirmed Potter in his pre-match press conference.
Should Chelsea fall to back-to-back league defeats, it will leave them further adrift of Arsenal and with more work to do to catch up to the current top four pack occupying the Champions league spots.
