1 Premier League Preview: Arsenal

The Big Issue: What constitutes success?

Is it trophies, or challenging for the title? Since May 2005, when Arsenal last experienced that winning feeling with the FA Cup, Arsenal fans have been caught in two minds. On one hand, they want something to put in a trophy cabinet that has been empty for eight long seasons. It’s not quite the great drought of 1953-70, when Arsenal went 17 years without a trophy – but then a season ticket to watch those Arsenal sides probably wasn’t costing fans the princely sum it is now. Those same supporters were also blissfully ignorant of the beautiful, winning football to come in the Invincibles season of 2003-04.

On the other hand, the fans would desperately like to see their team challenging for the league title. The 2007-08 season was the last time Arsenal came close to winning the Premier League, spending two-thirds of the season at the top of the table before Eduardo’s leg was horrifically snapped, William Gallas went into a very public sulk and they finished third. Should Arsenal accept that they’re now a team fighting for Champions League qualification and place more focus on cup wins? Or should they continue to fight the good fight against the fat cats towering above them? The indecision, with or without Luis Suarez, will almost certainly go on.

Keep an eye on…

Olivier Giroud – The Frenchman netted 17 goals in all competitions in his debut campaign – a haul not quite matching the prolific reputation he brought with him from Montpellier, but seven in five games during pre-season suggest his self- proclaimed ‘magical’ left foot could yet come into its own. The Gunners have lacked a clinical front man since the departure of Robin van Persie – but if Giroud’s form continues, they might have finally found their man.

The Stat

40 – Premier League points amassed so far by Arsenal in 2013 – level with Manchester United but more than anyone else. They clearly play better with a deadline.

If they were an animal, they would be a…

Peacock – Possesses all the frills necessary to attract new beaux, but ultimately spends too much of its time strutting around being ineffectual.

Prediction: 4th