Arsenal vs Brighton is the match of the day on December 27 when the leaders of the Premier League team, Arsenal, play against Brighton, against whom they are seeking momentum.
There is a lot on the line, as both clubs seek to secure their spot in the top or Brighton seeks to end a four-match league losing streak.
Mikel Arteta did not hide the magnitude of the challenge, and he commended the recent development of Brighton under the new management. Arteta said it is a club I like very much and refers to their energy, flexibility of the tactics, and unity under Fabian Huerzeler.
Arsenal comes with one of the best defensive histories in the league, with nine clean sheets achieved in the Premier League this season.
That toughness has been the key to their consistency, especially back at home, where the defensive control has provided the basis of the continued pressure on title competitors.
Brighton have had a relatively poor performance in recent attacking, with only six goals in their previous five games in the league. To this is added the fact that they are going against a defence which has not yielded in any of its 14 home league matches in the last 14 months.
The subplot of team news has also been important as Arteta is providing optimism, albeit cautiously, regarding various crucial returns.
Kai Havertz has recently returned to training following a knee injury, and Gabriel is also approaching it after an issue that had been acquired during the November international break.
Arsenal has still limited defensive depth with Ben White out of action and Gabriel Martinelli uncertain due to a recent blow. Nevertheless, the team has been able to cope with matches successfully, which is backed by the well-disciplined organization and the ability to control the middle and defend.
Brighton, in its turn, anticipates improvement in major aspects as both Danny Welbeck, Jan Paul van Hecke, and captain Lewis Dunk will be available. Nevertheless, Carlos Baleba is not free, as the international engagement restricts the ability to play in midfield in the run-up to a strenuous visit.
The current meetings provide the background, but no solace, because Arsenal has not lost in its last five matches against Brighton in every competition.
The latter run also encompasses a 2-0 Carabao Cup win in the Emirates in October, which bolstered the confidence of the home without being a sure-footed result.
Personal landmarks are also a source of interest, with Arsenal goalkeeper David Raya becoming the first player to appear in 150 Premier League games. Raya has made 58 clean sheets since his debut and is the highest in the league to do so.
The Emirates Stadium will be concentrated on the execution and not expectation as the game between Arsenal and Brighton progresses.
In the case of Arsenal, it is about control and consistency, whereas Brighton is aiming to have a response as prominent as its manager insists on being in terms of intensity and belief.
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