Preview: Arsenal vs Fulham

Can Fulham stop Robin van Persie? With 31 Premier League goals in 2011, the Dutch striker is the second highest scorer in the whole of Europe, and for Fulham to be able to secure a point against their London rivals you wonder if their best chance will be to stop van Persie at the Emirates in today's late afternoon kick off.

What a difference a few months makes, as Arsenal find themselves within touching distance of a top four place and amongst the teams to qualify for the knock out stages of the Champions League first. 


Five successive victories in the league sees the Gunners riding high in 7th spot, equal on points with title hopefuls Liverpool and Chelsea.


Arsenal hold all the aces in this game. They have never lost a game at home to Fulham, and the Cottagers have never scored more than one goal on their travels to North London. Fulham are 16th in the league, but Martin Jol remains confident that they can secure at least a point today at the Emirates.
 


TEAMS


Abou Diaby and Tomas Rosicky could both return for Arsenal, with Diaby making his first league appearance of the season.


Damien Duff will miss out for Fulham with injury but Jon Arne Riise could return to the first team.


 


PREDICTION
Arsenal 4-0 Fulham

FIRST GOALSCORER
Gervinho