Arsenal seek rare away win against ‘bullish’ Sheffield United

Sheffield United will look to turn their home fortunes around ahead of the visit of Arsenal on Monday night.

The Blades lost to league leaders Liverpool in their last home outing due to a blunder from goalkeeper Dean Henderson. Two wins, three draws and three loses is how Chris Wilder’s side have fared so far as they sit in 15th place.

Arsenal on the other hand are unbeaten in their last eight games in all competitions. The Gunners beat Bournemouth at the Emirates in their last outing before the international break. Unai Emery’s side will look to get over their poor away form having won just the one game on the road this season in the Premier League.

Arsenal manager Unai Emery was aware of the threat Sheffield United pose when speaking in his pre-match press conference:

‘They were in Premier League and they lost that in 2007, but they came back with big motivation.

‘The coach (Wilder), really his career with that team is amazing and how they are playing is the same as they played in the Championship, with big confidence, good players and their style is to be offensive.

Also they are defensively very strong and we are analysing the best possible game plan, but really it is going to be difficult.’

Chris Wilder was in an optimistic mood ahead of the clash:

“We are competitive and we fancy our chances and we are bullish. At the same time, however, understanding the threat and pace and power that Arsenal have in the top end of the pitch – we must respect that.”

Team news:

Sheffield United are hopeful John Fleck will pass a late fitness test following the injury he picked up whilst on international duty for Scotland. Oliver McBurnie is also a doubt due to a knee injury.

Arsenal’s Reiss Nelson has been ruled out due to a knee injury. However, striker Alexandre Lacazette has returned to first team training and could be available for the game at Bramall Lane.

Hector Bellerin and new signing Kieran Tierney are both fully fit and available with Emery hopeful both could play a part in the game.

Head-to-head

Sheffield United wins: 39

Draws: 26

Arsenal wins: 48