My Thoughts
Arsenal really are on form right now. Another 4 goals on Saturday away at Wigan, and in pole position to qualify from this tie, having secured a 1-1 draw in El Madrigal last Tuesday. The only question marks over this tie are on Arsenal's injury worries (keeper Manuel Almunia, and defenders William Gallas and Gael Clichy are ruled out)- how will inexperienced players like Lukasz Fabianski and Kieran Gibbs cope if faced with sustained Villarreal pressure?
Villarreal, however, are not without problems of their own. They are far from prolific goalscorers, particularly away from home. This writer was shocked to actually see The Yellow Submarines actually score a goal, having witnessed 4 consecutive 0-0 draws with Manchester United. They also travel to the Emirates without key man Marcos Senna, the only Brazilian ever to win the European Championship, who as well as providing security in midfield to allow the more creative players in the side such as Ariel Ibagaza and the evergreen Robert Pires (never did this writer think that he'd be singing his praises), also popped up with the opening goal in the 1st leg.
The Verdict
Home win. Can't see an on-song Arsenal side being troubled by an off-form Villarreal
The Bet
Arsenal to win (best price 4/7 with Betfred)
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