Arsenal v Southampton: A one-goal margin to seal slim home win

First plays third at the Emirates and although this extremely steely Southampton side have won at Anfield already this season, leaders Arsenal have the extra quality required to squeeze past Mauricio Pochettino’s side.

Not since they were thrilled by the genius of Matt Le Tissier, have Saints fans revelled so much in supporting their team, as the south coast club find themselves in the dizzying position of third in the Premier League when they visit the Gunners.

However, it’s not only those in the travelling contingent who remember the mid 90s fondly, that will be aware of Arsenal’s hoodoo over Southampton on the road.

Saints were not only beaten 6-1 twice in their last four top-flight visits to north London, but they have not won at either Highbury or the Emirates in 18 attempts, managing just five draws in that time.

These striking stats alone might be enough to push punters in the direction of a home win at 11/20, though given Southampton’s form this is hardly an appealing price.

Having taken all three points at Liverpool and one at Old Trafford thus far, most will be anticipating a much closer encounter than was witnessed last season and some may even fancy Saints stealing a point at 3/1.

Against the Premier League’s meanest defence – which has only been breached five times – Arsenal will certainly have to work hard for their win, but in the shape of a rested Mesut Ozil they have just the sort of player who can unlock the door.

If any team has the creative flair to find a way through Southampton’s stingy backline then it’s Arsenal, but given Southampton’s only losses in either league or cup have come by a single-goal margin this season, backing this outcome looks a great shout at 27/10 with Ladbrokes.

All Odds and Markets are correct as of the date of publishing.

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