Speaking to the press ahead of Stoke’s trip to Arsenal on Saturday, manager Mark Hughes claimed that he believes this could indeed be the year the Gunners win the title.

Hughes explained that it would be a tough match considering the form Arsenal are in and while in the past we’ve had weaknesses, this term something seems different.

“Arsenal, as a team, look in good shape and whilst we have a lot of confidence, given their form too, it isn’t a good time to play them,” he said.

“At times, Arsenal have struggled with consistency, and it has cost them, but you sense this could be their year. 

“It’s important for us to give ourselves an opportunity to get something out of the game, we need to stay in the match and frustrate them.”

Stoke currently sit ninth in the Premier League table and are likely to just come and play for the draw, which is hardly a unique tactic when it comes to teams visiting the Emirates. Hopefully, we can go ahead early and wrap the three points up as soon as possible.