Arsenal vs Everton preview: Gunners could go top if they claim Toffees scalp

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

Olivier Giroud is congratulated on his goal (Getty Images)

It’s a big game for…

KEVIN MIRALLAS: Since his sending off at Swansea City in mid-September, Mirallas hasn’t been able to show manager Roberto Martinez why he is crucial to Everton’s season due to suspension and being down the pecking order. He was left on the bench against Manchester United but could return to face the Gunners.

Best stat…

329: Arsenal have had more touches in the opposition’s box than any other Premier League club – 329 to be exact.

Remember when…

Robin Van Persie crashed in a delightful volley to score the only goal of the game against Everton in 2011. Alex Song drifted a ball over the top and Van Persie, measuring up the first-time strike, left Tim Howard with no chance in goal.

Player to watch…

PETR CECH: The Gunners were 2-0 winners over Bayern Munich on Tuesday, and keeper Cech was one of the main reasons why. He made a number of crucial saves and is now starting to prove why he can be such an influential player for Arsene Wenger as Arsenal look to challenge for the title.

Past three-meetings…

Arsenal 2 (Giroud, Rosicky) Everton 0, Premier League, March 2015

Everton 2 (Coleman, Naismith) Arsenal 2 (Ramsey, Giroud), Premier League, August 2014

Everton 3 (Naismith, Lukaku, Arteta (OG)) Arsenal 0, Premier League, April 2014

Form guide…

ARSENAL: WWLWWW

EVERTON: WDWWDL

Vital information…

KICK-OFF TIME: 5:30pm, Saturday 24 October

TV: Live on Sky Sports 1 from 5:00pm, highlights on Match of the Day from 10:30pm