Arsenal should bounce back

In many ways, Arsenal and Chelsea’s seasons have been very similar. But maybe this season will be different and Arsenal can bounce back after they lost against chelsea in last they mat in cup clash (Carling Cup)

However both sides had stuttering starts to the season and both have recently been boosted by the return of their own respective midfield stars.

Though it would be short-sighted to write Chelsea off completely, it would seem that the title race is now between Liverpool and Manchester United. Therefore both Arsenal and Chelsea are seeking success in the FA Cup and Champions League. And at Wembley this evening, it’s the former that takes centre-stage.

Back on 22 November last year, Arsenal’s season appeared to be in turmoil. After having played just 14 league games, the Gunners had already lost five and that is simply not top-four form. Since then, however, Arsene Wenger’s side have been quietly putting a string of results together. They are unbeaten in 18 league games - the longest run since the ‘invincibles’ of 2003/04.

Chelsea started 08/09 fairly brightly, but suffered three defeats in quick succession in late October and November at the hands of Liverpool, Roma and Arsenal. Earlier this year, away defeats to both Liverpool and Manchester United in the league all but ended Luiz Filippe Scolari’s six-month spell in charge at Stamford Bridge. Guus Hiddink has done fairly well as Scolari’s successor, despite losing at Tottenham just under a month ago.