Former Arsenal and England international, Paul Merson has revealed the advantage Leeds will have over Arsenal as both sides prepare to clash in the Premier League this weekend.
Following an extended international break, the Premier League resumes with Arsenal facing Leeds on Saturday at 12:30 p.m. UK time.
The Gunners kicked off their Premier League campaign impressively, securing victories in each of their first four league matches.
However, Arsenal suffered an unexpected 3-0 defeat to Brighton immediately before the international break. The team will seek to bounce back from the setback when they host Leeds at the Emirates Stadium.
Merson told Sky Sports that Leeds would have a slight advantage over the North London side because of Arsenal’s players’ limited preparation time following their international commitments.
He said, “Numerous Arsenal players left during the international break. They likely returned yesterday and completed a brief warm-up session, leaving them with only today and part of tomorrow to train on set-pieces and tactical patterns before their 12:30 p.m. Saturday kick-off.
“Consequently, preparation time is limited, and I believe this gives Leeds a slight advantage, particularly given the 12:30 p.m. kick-off immediately following the international break.”
Arsenal are also facing injury concerns. Ahead of the weekend fixture, there is uncertainty surrounding the availability of several key players, including Martin Odegaard, Declan Rice and Kai Havertz.
Arsenal currently occupy second position in the Premier League standings, trailing leaders Manchester City.