Sporting vs Arsenal: Gunners readjust focus on Europa League aspirations after courageous Cherries comeback

ARSENAL take on Sporting in a delicious Europa League knockout game – and they’re hoping for a smoother journey than their last game against Bournemouth.

Mikel Arteta’s men had to dig deep after falling TWO goals from behind – with the first coming within nine seconds.

But Reiss Nelson’s final blow helped the Gunners take all three points from the Cherries over the weekend.

However, the Arsenal boss will be determined to keep his side level-headed as they now face a Sporting side that have great pedigree in European football.

Additionally, the Portuguese giants have well-known face Hector Bellerin in their ranks and he will be eager to prove a point against some of his former team-mates.

When is Sporting vs Arsenal?

• Sporting’s tasty Europa League game against Arsenal will take place on Thursday, March 9th.
• The start is scheduled for at 5:45 p.m. UK time – same time on site.
• The Estadio Jose Alvalade in Lisbon, Portugal is the assigned arena for this big match and has a capacity of approximately 50,095 spectators.
• The Gunners drew in a goalless draw the last time these sides met in a Europa League group game in 2018.

What TV channel is it on and can it be streamed live?

• Sporting vs Arsenal will be broadcast LIVE At BT sport 2 In the United Kingdom.
• Transmission begins at 5.15pm UK time – 30 minutes before kick-off.
• BT Sport subscribers can stream all the action live via the BT Sport website or the BT Sport app.
• Alternatively, SunSport’s live blog will provide up-to-the-minute coverage of the game.

What’s new from the team?

Sport boss Ruben Amorim is hoping Dario Essugo will recover in time for the big clash with Arsenal.

While for Daniel Braganca, despite returning to training after tearing his cruciate ligament last July, it’s probably too soon.

Elsewhere, Mikel Arteta will sweat over the fitness of Eddie Nketiah, who missed out on the brave win at Bournemouth.

And Leandro Trossard after being picked up early with a suspected groin strain.

However, that could mean a start for super-sub Reiss Nelson after his heroic performance over the weekend.

How are the chances?

• Sporting wins 5/2
• Draw 23.10
• Arsenal wins 11/10

*Odds courtesy of Ladbrokes correct at time of publication