There are still three horses in the Premier League title race. Ollie Watkins has just scored a fine goal to make it Newcastle 0-2 Aston Villa at St James’ Park. With only a couple of minutes of normal time remaining, Villa are on course for another outstanding victory. What a team!
Set pieces are dominating the Premier League this season, with almost 30% of goals coming from corners, free-kicks, penalties or long throws. The leaders, Arsenal, are kings of the dead ball, scoring 17 of their 40 league goals from set pieces (including penalties). But what makes Mikel Arteta’s side so effective in these areas, and what can opponents do to stop them? The data provides some answers.
Gabriel Jesus, who scored twice against Internazionale in the week, starts ahead of Viktor Gyokeres. That’s one of four changes from last week’s goalless draw at the City Ground. Piero Hincapie, Leandro Trossard and Bukayo Saka replace Ben White, Gabriel Martinelli and Noni Madueke.
No great surprise that Michael Carrick sticks with the Manchester United team that beat Manchester City so impressively.
Arsenal (4-3-3) Raya; Timber, Saliba, Gabriel, Hincapie; Odegaard, Zubimendi, Rice; Saka, Jesus, Trossard.
