Thoughts ahead of Arsenal vs Manchester United

Arsenal v Manchester United

Emirates Stadium

Kick-off: 19.45 GMT.

Referee: Mark Clattenburg.

Few seasons ago, this fixture would have been the title decider full of endless drama and tales.

Not so this season; this is about two teams fighting to keep up with the pack, even though Arsenal remain in second place in the Premier League and only a point off the lead.

In fact, by this time last season Manchester United were at the driver's seat but this season so far, reverse has been the case.

United have been wounded by recent failures having picke only 6points from the last seven games while an Arsenal defence which is so strong at home, must make up for the 5-1 "accident" at Anfield.

David Moyes' side has beaten Arsenal once already and need another victory to keep the wolves from the door.

FANATICAL:

The pressure from Arsenals fans on Mesut Ozil could be said to be a case of "To whom much is given, much is expected". At a time as this, players of such calibre are expected to perform "magic" so to speak. For him, the weekend show wasn't quite impressive as he couldn't make any real impact to inspire his colleagues. 

Meanwhile, This is not to discredit Ozil of his performance and contribution to this Arsenal side this season. 

For United, despite finding themselves where they had not envisaged, there are speculations of some players in the camp thinking of the exit door as soon as the season ends. The onus of inspiring the team now lies on the Trio of Wayne Rooney, Former Arsenal forward Robin Van Persie and recent inclusion Juan Mata. 

Something has got to change. Will Arsenal lose another big game or United will continue with their woes.

Another important fixture to look out for tonight is the Manchester City vs Sunderland match. It could be recalled that city lost 0-1 in the reverse fixture.

The city side miss a key members of the squad that have jelled in the course of their quest for the title this season. Injury has kept Fernandinho, Aguero, Nasri and a couple of others out and it was quite obvious in the Chelsea tie that they are missed. At the weekend, city shared the spoils with Norwich city in a goalless encounter.

Sunderland on the other hand approach this match from the heels of a 2-0 loss to Hull city. They will need to do more to consolidate or keep surging off the relegation zone. 

Can Sunderland upset City tonight? Time will tell.