Arsenal vs Sporting: Gunners put Premier League title charge aside as they eye Europa League last-8 spot
ARSENAL have been in superb form this season – but Sporting will be determined to thwart their plans in the Europa League round of 16 second leg.
Three first-half goals from Gabriel, Gabriel Martinelli and Martin Odegaard ensured the Gunners blew Fulham away at the weekend.
It meant Mikel Arteta’s men became the first team in Football League history to win five consecutive away derbies in London without conceding a goal.
However, the north London side must now put their Premier League title ambitions on hold to overcome the hiccup in the Europa League first leg against Portuguese giants Sporting.
And having only lost twice at home all season, Arsenal are certainly favorites to reach the quarters.
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When does Arsenal play Sporting?
- Arsenal’s delicious Europa League return game against Sporting takes place on Thursday March 16th.
- The start is scheduled for at 8pm UK time.
- The Emirates Stadium in north London is the assigned arena for this game and can seat around 60,000 fans.
- The Gunners drew 2-2 as the teams met in the first leg.
What TV channel is it on and can it be streamed live?
- Arsenal vs Sporting will be broadcast LIVE BT sport 2 In the United Kingdom.
- Coverage is expected to begin at 7.15pm UK time – 45 minutes before kick-off.
- BT Sport subscribers can stream all the action live via the BT Sport website or app.
- Alternatively, SunSport will provide up-to-the-minute coverage of the entire game, including setup and reaction.
What’s new from the team?
Mikel Arteta will be delighted to be almost at full strength with only Eddie Nketiah and Mohamed Elneny unavailable for the Sporting clash.
Additionally, the Arsenal boss could be tempted to allow Gabriel Jesus his first start since November following his 11-minute display against Fulham.
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Meanwhile, Ruben Amorim will be sweating over the fitness of Antonio Adan and ex-Gunners full-back Hector Bellerin, both to be assessed ahead of the big Europa League competition.
In addition, captain Sebastian Coates and Hidemasa Morita are suspended.
However, Daniel Braganca could return to the squad as the midfielder is back in full training.
How are the chances?
- Arsenal win 4/11
- Pull 15/4
- Sports 15/2
To qualify
- Armory 2/13
- Sports 4/1
*Odds courtesy of Ladbrokes correct at time of publication