Arsene has some decisions to make. Cesc and Van Persie both need games but I struggle to see how all three can play in the same team unless the formation changes which I cannot see it doing

After the result on Monday, this game couldn’t have come quick enough. The long wait for the top of the table clash ended with disappointment and the best way to shake out of the system is to win your next game.

After thinking about our Barcelona draw for much of yesterday, it will have to be a jump to the other end of the spectrum for my thought process. A completely different world of football as Stoke City and Ryan Shawcross turn up at the Emirates with the aim of giving us a difficult game.

I certainly hope that the players will have put the Barcelona game to the back of their minds because this afternoon’s match is the only one that counts right now.

While the crowds focus is likely to be on Mr Shawcross, I hope the players can focus on the job in hand and use all available energy on creating chances, scoring goals and keeping clean sheets. I suppose just the one clean sheet will do.

Stoke are a physically imposing side but unfortunately we will be missing a few of our taller players. Abou Diaby is back in training but is not yet ready to appear in the squad whilst Nicklas Bendtner is due to become a father so is likely to miss out.

Ideally Wenger would have wanted to rest Chamakh and put Van Persie at the top end of the pitch but because of the aerial threat, I wonder if Chamakh will be needed in both penalty boxes, especially if Bendtner does not rejoin the squad.

Arsene has some decisions to make. Cesc and Van Persie both need games but I struggle to see how all three can play in the same team unless the formation changes which I cannot see it doing.

I imagine that Theo Walcott may start on the right, possibly shifting Nasri to the left and Johan Djourou’s extra power in the air may be preferred over either Squillaci or Koscielny.

Mean Lean’s Predicted Line Up

One to watch: Theo Walcott

I am assuming that Theo will start the game and play in his familiar right wing position. We need him to rediscover his pre injury form earlier in the season. Everything was going right for him in that period. He had pre season behind him, he was scoring goals and looking assured in possession. His injury seems to have knocked him right back to the beginning and his luck and form will have to turn at some point. I hope it starts today with a goal and an assist against Stoke City

Mean Lean’s Match Prediction

Arsenal 2 (Walcott, Nasri) Stoke City 0

We have to find our fluidity early in the game and get back to creating chances. I expect Stoke to play on the counter attack and cross many balls into our box. The likes of Djourou should he be selected need to dominate in the air.

Lets forget about Shawcross and his manager, the three points are the only thing that matters this afternoon.

COME ON YOU GUNNERS.