Paul Merson has made a remarkable claim about Arsenal's Premier League title hopes ahead of their clash with Fulham on Saturday evening. The former Arsenal midfielder believes that a victory against Fulham could effectively end the title race, giving the Gunners a crucial psychological advantage over Manchester City.
Arsenal's Title Push
Arsenal moved back to the top of the Premier League table last weekend with a hard-fought 1-0 win against Newcastle United, while Manchester City were not in league action. A win against Fulham would temporarily extend Arsenal's lead to six points, ahead of City's trip to Everton on Monday night.
Speaking to Sportskeeda, Merson boldly declared: 'If Arsenal win this game, they win the league! Three points to Mikel Arteta's team in this one and Manchester City will have to pull up trees to win the title from here on.'
Psychological Advantage
Merson emphasized the importance of the upcoming fixtures, stating: 'I said it before as well, these two games against Newcastle and Fulham are so crucial for Arsenal that I would not think of goal difference. I'd take a 1-0 win and just get the three points.'
He added: 'City still have to go to Everton and Bournemouth, which are two tricky away fixtures. Arsenal getting points on the board before those games will be an advantage for sure.'
City's Vulnerability
Merson also highlighted potential weaknesses in Manchester City's recent performances: 'I watched City against Burnley and I thought they weren't that great either. I expect them to score goals in games, but they could concede chances and a team like Everton or Bournemouth might hurt them!'
Focus on Fulham
Merson urged Arsenal to concentrate on the immediate task: 'Arsenal must forget about the second leg against Atletico Madrid and get the job done against Fulham. If they lose to Fulham, then they will definitely lose to Atletico on Tuesday. And hence, it could be all over for them in the next few days. Arsenal must get the win.'
Team News
Arsenal could welcome Eberechi Eze and Bukayo Saka back into the starting lineup after both featured off the bench against Atletico Madrid in midweek. Kai Havertz and Jurrien Timber are expected to remain sidelined, while there are doubts over Martin Odegaard following his early withdrawal on Wednesday.
Fulham, meanwhile, are without three key players, with Alex Iwobi, Ryan Sessegnon, and Kevin all unavailable.
