Arsenal v Wigan preview

The Gunners are unbeaten in 19 Premier League matches

By James Dall   Last updated: 23rd November 2007

Tomas Rosicky Arsenal

Rosicky: One to watch

skysports.com prediction: Arsenal 2 Wigan 1

Player to watch: Tomas Rosicky

Sky Bet odds: Arsenal 1/6 Draw 9/2 Wigan 12/1

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Saturday's encounter between Arsenal and Wigan Athletic exhibits an extreme clash of recent fortunes; however in football little can be taken for granted.

The form guide does not bode well for Wigan fans, with a glaring contrast between their failings and The Gunners' blemish-free record.

Arsene Wenger's side have won nine Premier League matches and conceded 10 goals so far this season, whereas The Latics have lost nine and scored 10.

Steve Bruce's delayed appointment sees him shunned of the responsibility of making his Wigan bow at the Emirates Stadium, while his absence saves Arsenal from facing a resurgent team under new management.

Six missing

The international period has been unkind to Wenger, who already knew he would be without Cesc Fabregas through suspension.

The French tactician has lost Alexander Hleb (hamstring), Mathieu Flamini (thigh) and Abou Diaby (back), while Gilberto Silva is not due to return from international duty with Brazil until Friday.

The dearth of midfielders leaves Wenger with a minor selection headache; however Denilson and Lassana Diarra are in contention to fill the central roles, with the creative Tomas Rosicky in his usual wide-left position.

Furthermore, Saturday's game comes too soon for Robin van Persie, who has been struggling with a long-term knee injury.

Heskey loss

England Under 21 star Theo Walcott is pushing for a start, while defender Philippe Senderos is available after shaking off a hip problem.

Wigan's limpness up front - having scored just 10 goals in 13 games - is not helped by Emile Heskey's lengthy spell on the sidelines with a metatarsal injury.

Goalkeeper Carlo Nash (broken leg) remains the visitor's only other injury concern, leaving caretaker boss Frank Barlow with a variety of options for his starting XI as he looks to halt a run of seven consecutive league defeats.