Michael Oliver will take charge of this weekend’s London derby with both clubs having contrasting results with the official.
WITH the weekend’s standout fixture taking place at the Emirates Stadium between Arsenal and Chelsea, Wenger‘s men have been dealt a blow with who is officiating.
The Gunners haven’t beaten Chelsea in the league since the dramatic 5-3 victory at Stamford Bridge in 2011, and that run could extend with Michael Oliver appointed to referee.
Arsenal sit in fourth spot ahead of the upcoming London derby on ten points, one spot in front of the Blues, who also stand on ten points, but have a weaker goal difference.
With Oliver refereeing, the North London side have failed to register a win in their last EIGHT Premier League fixtures, drawing five and losing three.
In contrast, the Pensioners are unbeaten in their last 13 encounters, picking up seven victories and six draws.
Oliver officiated Arsenal’s opening game of the 2016/17 season, where they lost 4-3 at home to Liverpool.
Former fan favourite Cesc Fabregas is in contention to start his first league game under new manager Antonio Conte, after his brace helped knock out champions Leicester City in the EFL Cup on Tuesday night.
Arsene Wenger is without injured Aaron Ramsey again as his hamstring injury keeps him sidelined, but fellow midfielder Granit Xhaka has made his case to start on Saturday evening with back-to-back 30-yard screamers against Hull City and Nottingham Forrest.
Diego Costa, often a thorn in Arsenal’s side looks set to lead the Chelsea line, and new boy Lucas Perez, fresh after netting his first and second goals midweek could start ahead of Olivier Giroud who is a doubt with a toe injury.