After a slow start, Arsenal are beginning to hit form as the Premier League campaign heats up.
The Gunners have lost just twice in their last 10 domestic matches and currently sit third in the table – one point ahead of fourth-placed Manchester United in the last Champions League position.
Such is the importance of European football, every match is vital and Arsene Wenger will hope that his side are experienced enough to secure a place in Europe’s top competition for the 18th consecutive year.
Here are seven of Arsenal’s most important remaining fixtures:
7. Arsenal v West Ham (14th March)
On paper, this may look a routine victory for the Gunners but they should be wary of a much improved West Ham side that aren’t a million miles away from challenging for a Europa League spot.
The Hammers will be without striker Andy Carroll and will lack physicality because of that but they possess the in-form Diafra Sakho who could cause problems for the Arsenal defence. This clash has been flat in recent years but a revived West Ham side could make this tough for the Gunners.
6. Arsenal v Chelsea (25th April)
As the race for the top four heats up, the Gunners welcome title contenders Chelsea to the Emirates Stadium.
Although this game isn’t as crucial as victory over a top four rival, collecting all three points against the Blues may give Arsenal the impetus and confidence to go on and win their remaining matches. Chelsea are the favourites to go on and win the title, as well as possessing talent all over the field, but Arsenal have beaten them before and supporters will hope that Wenger can finally outwit Jose Mourinho.
5. Arsenal v West Brom (24th May)
The Gunners have been involved in last day drama before and, should it come down to it, they may be involved in another nail-biting contest against the Baggies on the final day of the season.
This clash may be difficult, especially if West Brom are fighting for survival, and Arsenal will have to ensure they approach the game in the right manner. Wenger’s outfit have an excellent home record against the Baggies and supporters will be hoping the Gunners can end the campaign with a few goals and, more importantly, the three points.
4. QPR v Arsenal (4th March)
This midweek fixture could be a potential banana skin as Queens Park Rangers look to improve their chances of survival under new manager Chris Ramsey.
In theory, the Gunners should be strong enough to win this game but football isn’t played on paper and Wenger will be very careful to avoid slipping up against their London rivals. With an FA Cup quarter-final tie at Old Trafford just five days later, Arsenal will need to make sure they are fully focused on beating Rangers before thinking about their clash with Manchester United as the Gunners bid to retain their trophy.
3. Newcastle v Arsenal (21st March)
Just four days after their Champions Leg trip to Monaco, the Gunners face Newcastle United at St. James’ Park – a difficult fixture both on paper and in reality.
The Geordie supporters are extremely passionate about their club and tend to create a thrilling atmosphere that can be intimidating for opposing sides. If Arsenal perform then they are more than capable of winning this game but the home side could prove stern opponents if the Gunners are below their usual high standards and the crowd gets involved.
2. Arsenal v Liverpool (4th April)
This could be a colossal fixture in the race for the top four as it is a genuine ‘six-pointer’.
Brendan Rodgers’ outfit have started to gel and are a dangerous opponent against any side due to their pace and directness in attack. Wenger will need to combat Liverpool’s two attacking midfielders off the front if they are to control the game and hopefully, the Frenchman can set his team up in a way that restricts Liverpool’s attack and allows the Gunners to dominate possession. Arsenal came within moments of victory at Anfield and they will be looking that home advantage at the Emirates can help them earn all three points.
1. Manchester United v Arsenal (16th May)
Words cannot describe just how important this game could turn out to be.
The Gunners travel to Old Trafford on the penultimate weekend of the season and it might be the case that victory over United secures Champions League football at Arsenal for the 18th successive season. This reverse fixture is likely to be a close affair but Arsenal will be confident that they can earn a second win in Manchester this year after beating Manchester City in January.