Do or Die for Arsenal

February is right around the corner – which means that Chelsea have almost completed what many predicted would be the most problematic part of their schedule. The conventional wisdom was that, with Didier Drogba and Michael Essien away at the African Cup of Nations during January, Chelsea would struggle for points, giving their rivals their best chance to seize an advantage.

As it is, Arsene Wenger’s men have captured second spot (in part, because the winter weather knocked out one of Chelsea’s league fixtures.)  But now Arsenal’s own tricky patch is about to begin – and frankly it’s difficult to see how it could be any more daunting. After storming into second place, the Gunners now face a true test of their title credentials with trips to Villa Park and Stamford Bridge, as well as visits from Manchester United and Liverpool.

Win the majority of these matches, and Arsenal will be in pole position during the season’s final stretch. But slip up, and it will be curtains.

First up: Aston Villa (away)

After storming into second place, the Gunners now face a true test of their title credentials with trips to Villa Park and Stamford Bridge, as well as visits from Manchester United and Liverpool.

Win the majority of these matches, and Arsenal will be in pole position during the season’s final stretch. But slip up, and it will be curtains.

Aston Villa (a) January 27

Led by an inspiring performance from Cesc Fabregas, Arsenal thrashed Villa 3-0 when they visited the Emirates before the New Year. Yet the fact remains that no team has let in fewer goals than Villa this season – and they’ve been especially thrifty at their home ground. With Robin Van Persie still injured and Eduardo yet to fire on all cylinders, Arsenal might be lucky to come away with a draw.

Triple teamed - Arsenal grabbed all three-points against Villa at the Emirates.

Next up: Manchester United (home)

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