English Premier
2011-01-01 - Birmingham vs Arsenal
A Sports Betting Pick by Cruiser
Analysis:Birmingham have lost just once at St. Andrew's in their last 24 Premier League games played there. So Arsenal will have to dig deep if they are to come away with all three points.
In midweek, they stunned Manchester United by holding them to a draw courtesy of Lee Bowyer's 89th minute strike. Now as Arsenal comes Birmingham will hope to get the better of Arsenal and pull away from the edge of the relegation zone and climb the table in Saturday's tea-time kick-off.
Arsenal meanwhile could only managed a 2-2 draw with Wigan after their impressive win over Chelsea. A win over Wigan would have put them same on points with United but a late own goal from Sebastien Squillaci meant they had to settle for a point.
Wenger will want to make sure his side remains focus as Birmingham have scored a 90th minute goal in three of their last four home games against Wenger's side, picking up an extra four points as a result.
Arsenal will be happy to note that Birmingham have won just once in their 13 Premiership clashes between the sides. Three of the last five games ended in draws though.
Birmingham will want some revenge after losing their last meeting in October despite taking the lead but eventually losing 2-1. Last season it ended in a 1-1 draw after Kevin Phillips' last-gasp strike sealed a 1-1 draw. If a draw happens here once again then Wenger could see his side lose out on the title race.
Birmingham City Team News :
As for the team news, McLeish is expected to keep faith and retain the same side that drew with Manchester United in midweek.
The home side have no fresh injury worries, with former Gunners midfielder Alexander Hleb again likely to be amongst the substitutes as he continues his return from a hamstring injury.
Arsenal Team News :
As for Arsenal, they welcome back captain Cesc Fabregas from suspension after the Spaniard missed Wednesday's Wigan clash. However, midfielder Abou Diaby will be out for around a month after suffering a calf strain against Wigan.
The likes of Robin van Persie and Alex Song are expected to come back into the side having been rested against the Latics, but Thomas Vermaelen (Achilles), goalkeeper Manuel Almunia (ankle) and Kieran Gibbs (ankle) are all still out.
The Betting Verdict :
Take Arsenal and give the 3/4 ball here.
The Statistics :
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The Pick :
Birmingham City 1-2 Arsenal
BEST BETTING TIP :
Take Arsenal to win here.
Gooner’s Statistical Value Bet
Take Arsenal and give the 3/4 ball here.
