Game Week 29 Predictions: Arsenal to win at Brighton

Premier League preview: Brighton vs Arsenal at Amex Stadium – Gunners must win all remaining for title, Seagulls seek Europe push; Arsenal to win.

Arsenal's title charge takes them to Brighton on Wednesday night. Anything short of a win will be of huge detriment to the Gunners' ambition. (Photo credit: Opta)

 Brighton vs Arsenal

Amex Stadium

8:30pm

Arsenal knows that from this point onwards, there’s no margin for error. The only way the Gunners can win their first title in 21 years is to win all their remaining games.

Mikel Arteta and his lads have done some great work to win their last two games, which were against their biggest local rivals. In seasons past, the Gunners could have dropped points against Tottenham and Chelsea. Now they must build on those results.

Fabian Hurzelar has been vocal in his pressers against Arsenal’s set pieces and the antics the Gunners employ during corners and throw-ins. It’s strange to see how managers now blame others for doing what has always been a part of the game.

If it were easy for teams to score from corners every game, wouldn't everyone be doing it? Brighton hasn’t exactly excited anyone this season, so the German manager must find other ways to win games. Complaining about other teams won’t get him anywhere.

The seagulls have won their last two games, with those two wins coming off the back of three straight losses. This one at home against the Gunners will test their resolve. They’re an expansive side with fleet-footed wingers; the prospect of throwing caution into the wind is something, but they must defend well too.

Arsenal beat Chelsea with two goals from corner kicks, but the Gunners also conceded a goal from the corner flag when Colombian Piero Hincapie headed past his own goalkeeper. This should excite Brighton, because if Arsenal can score from set pieces, they can too.

The Seagulls are three points away from the proverbial 40 points, which many believe guarantees safety. Although there are many teams in the relegation dogfight, that is the least of Brighton’s problems this season. To make Europe, Brighton must start winning games, including this type of game.

Brighton have most of their players fit and available for this fixture. Danny Welbeck is the man they will hope can get the job done at the other end, with the former Arsenal striker in good form. Kaoru Mitoma is another player the Gunners must be wary of as well as Yakubu Minteh.

For the Gunners, they will sweat on the fitness of Declan Rice, who hobbled off against the Blues at the weekend. Kai Havertz and youngsters Max and Dowman are both fit, and, with too many games still approaching, Arsenal must prioritise the fitness of some players. Is it rotation time for Mikel Arteta?

Verdict: Arsenal to win at Brighton.