Chelsea may have won all three of their Premier League crowns since Arsenal
last achieved the feat in 2004, but whether the strongest title
challenge comes from west or north London this season is up for debate.
Neither club have yet tasted defeat, and while Roberto Di Matteo's side
are the early frontrunners, this game represents the first genuine test
of their new-look style. With Santi Cazorla having adapted instantly to
English football to become Arsenal's creative hub, Arsène Wenger's side
look similarly regenerated. Paul Chronnell Emirates Stadium, Saturday 12.45pm
Tickets Sold out
Last season Arsenal 0 Chelsea 0
Referee M Atkinson
This season's matches 4 Y16, R0, 4.00 cards per game
Odds Arsenal 11-10 Chelsea 5-2 Draw 12-5
Arsenal
Probable starters in bold, contenders in light Photograph: Graphic
Subs from Martínez, André Santos, Djourou, Koscielny, Frimpong, Coquelin, Arshavin, Walcott, Oxlade-Chamberlain, GiroudDoubtful None
Injured Sagna (leg, 6 Oct), Wilshere (foot, 20 Oct), Rosicky (achilles, 20 Oct), Szczesny (ankle, 20 Oct), Fabianski (shoulder, 20 Oct)
Suspended None
Form guide DWWDDW
Disciplinary record Y2 R0
Leading scorers Podolski, Gervinho 2
Chelsea
Subs from Turnbull, Hilário, Blackman, Ferreira, Azpilicueta, Cahill, Romeu, Bertrand, Marin, Oscar, Moses, PiazonDoubtful Lampard (ankle)
Injured Sturridge (hamstring, 6 Oct)
Suspended None
Form guide WDWWWW
Disciplinary record Y7 R0
Leading scorers Torres, Ivanovic, Lampard 2
Match pointers
• Over the past 33 league matches between these sides, Chelsea have only won when they have fielded the summer departure Didier Drogba• Arsenal won their first 12 home Premier League fixtures against Chelsea but have won just two of their last eight
• Mikel Arteta has averaged 111 touches per match this term, the most in the division
• Chelsea and Arsenal are the only top flight teams yet to concede a second-half goal
• Only Vito Mannone (91%) has a better saves-to-shots ration this season than Petr Cech (88%)
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