Mark Lawrenson states his prediction for Arsenal vs Southampton

  Arsenal are preparing to host Southampton in the Premier League midweek game on Wednesday, December 16. Ahead of the game, BBC Sport football expert Mark Lawrenson has stated his prediction. "Arsenal did not give up against Burnley, even with 10 men, but they are clearly lacking belief at the moment. "The Gunners have had plenty of defensive issues in recent years but they were always a team that created plenty of chances. That is no longer the case, and it is a massive problem for them. "I look through the team and think 'who is going to get them playing?' and, while Thomas Partey is out injured, I don't think they have anyone who can do that. "While they struggle like this, it just raises the Mesut Ozil question, and why he isn't involved. Whatever the reason is for that, it is extremely hard to argue he would not improve the team if he came back. "Southampton, in contrast, are flying right now and are only two points off the top of the Premier League. It is fabulous to see them doing so well. "They will go to Emirates Stadium and think they can win, and rightly so. "On current form, if you go through each team you would not swap any of the Saints defenders, midfielders or attackers for any of Arsenal's at the moment. "Based on reputation, it might be a different story - but reputation does not win you football matches." Lawrenson's score prediction: 0-2  source - BBC / Join us on Telegram

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