TweetArsenal v. Swansea CitySaturday, 10:00amFox Soccer
The Gunners will trot out a new-look lineup this week when they welcome Swansea to the Emirates. Arsenal were able to snag five transfers before the deadline:
Park Chu-Young, Forward - MonacoAndre Santos, Defense - FenerbahcePer Mertesacker, Defense - Werder BremenYossi Benayoun, Midfield - Chelsea (on loan)Mikel Arteta, Midfield - Everton
At first glace it appears Arsenal have addressed their most pressing need: defense. Per Mertesacker has been a stalwart in the center of a strong Werder Bremen side, and Andre Santos at left back has the ability to put the ball in the back of the net like only a Brazilian defender can. When Thomas Vermaelen returns from his latest injury in six weeks, Arsenal will finally have two competent center backs on the field at the same time (gasp!). Bacary Sagna, the Gunner's most reliable defender, will appreciate the help across the wing as well. Santos will round out what could prove to be Arsenal's most adept back four in recent memory - eventually.
Mikel Arteta and Yossi Benayoun don't quite roll off the tongue like Samir Nasri and Cesc Fabregas, but they will be a big help in a midfield that's A) depleted by transfer, B) riddled with injury, and C) very young.
Swansea will be looking for the first Welsh win in Barclay's Premier League history. They've been an exciting team to watch thus far, with surprising Dutch keeper Michel Vorm stealing the early-season show. He managed to shine in a Manchester City match on a night City put in four goals. I'll get back to you when anyone noteworthy in attack breaks through. The Swans have yet to put a ball in the net in three tries. While Wojciech Szczesy in goal has been the lone non-dull spot for Arsenal this year, I see Swansea getting off the slide this week - in terms of scoring at least. Arsenal has too many injuries and too little experience as a unit to defend effectively this week.
Final Score: 2-1 to the Arsenal
