Arsenal v Fulham: Back the score draw at the Emirates

Fulham are the first of three visitors to the Emirates who Arsenal must all send home empty-handed if they are to get their wavering season back on track.

The Cottagers are not the easiest opponents to begin this crucial run against and they have given their north London adversaries a hard time in the past two seasons. This renders the home sides’ odds of 1/2 poor value for money.

The way Arsenal have been playing of late – they’ve been their usual frail selves at the back, while still struggling to get over Robin van Persie’s departure at the other end of the pitch – means the draw at 3/1 is a much more appetising prospect, while the 11/2 for Fulham to win shouldn’t be ruled out either.

Arsene Wenger’s men have failed to win any of the past three renewals, yet Fulham’s 2-1 win at Craven Cottage last season represented Martin Jol’s first victory in 11 clashes with the Gunners; such a poor record must inspire confidence in the worrying Arsenal fans.

With no loss in four – although three of which were drawn – Fulham rock up for this one in much better shape than the hosts who have only picked up one win in their last six. As Arsenal continue to struggle for goals, it’s worth having a bet on the visitors to get a win or draw with two goals or fewer scored in the game at 3/1.

The score draw is also a tempting at 7/2. The visitors have only failed to net in one Premier League game to date and with the Gunners suffering lapses at the back for fun – simultaneously dispelling the short-lived myth that Steve Bould’s promotion to assistant manager has rectified all their defensive discrepancies – it’s easy to see the hosts dropping more valuable points here.

All odds and markets accurate as of publication’s time and date