Arsenal v Southampton match preview

A look ahead to the Premier League fixture at the Emirates Stadium

Theo Walcott could return for Arsenal against his former club (GETTY IMAGES)

Top of the table Arsenal are flying high this season. The acquisition of Mesut Ozil from Real Madrid in the summer has breathed new life into the Gunners midfield, and the rejuvenation of Aaron Ramsey has felt like another new signing for Arsene Wenger.

Although Ozil has been credited with much of Arsenal’s success this season, it is Ramsey’s performances in the centre of the park which have helped lift the Gunners to the summit of the league table.

While Arsenal have indeed made a wonderful start to the campaign they did stumble in their last Premier League outing against Manchester United, losing 1-0 thanks to a header from former hero, Robin Van Persie.

Meanwhile Southampton are just three points behind Arsenal and could join their opponents at the top of the league on Saturday evening with a win at the Emirates.

Rickie Lambert and Pablo Osvaldo will be the two danger men for the Saints on Saturday, the former having scored four times this season and Osvaldo’s trickery and skill in midfield will worry the likes of Per Mertesacker and Thomas Vermaelen.

KICK OFF Saturday, 3pm

PAST THREE MEETINGS

Southampton 1 (Ramierez) 1 (Do Prado og) Arsenal , Premier League, 1 January 2013.

Southampton 0 6 (Hooiveld og, Podolski, Gervinho 2, Clyne og, Walcott), Premier League, 15 Sep, 2012

Southampton 1 (Crouch) 1 (Ljungberg), Premier League, 26 Feb, 2005

STATS

The last time Southampton beat Arsenal was back in 2002 with a 3-2 victory.

Saints are unbeaten in eight matches.

Mauricio Pochettino’s men have the best defensive record in the Premier League, conceding five goals.

ODDS

Arsenal to win – 6/10

Southampton to win – 5/1

Draw – 14/5

TV Highlights on BBC 1 at 10.30pm