Sheffield United needs some respite; the next opponent they want to play wouldn’t be one that now scores for fun, but it is what it is.

The Blades currently sit at the bottom of the log on goal difference; only a point against the Gunners would move them up to 19th, but eleven points stand between them and safety. That’s huge at this stage, and they must start winning games consistently to stand a chance of survival.

Arsenal saw Liverpool score a late goal to snatch all three points from Nottingham Forest on Saturday, while the champions also came from one goal down to beat Manchester United at the Etihad Stadium on Sunday, leaving them five points off the top.

Sheffield United on paper isn’t a team to trouble the Gunners, but teams at the bottom of the log are typically banana peels currently. Arsenal must be wary of the threats of the hosts; they will give everything it takes to earn something.

Sheffield United have only one win in their last five games, the big win at Luton, which gave them some hope in the relegation battle. A game against Arsenal feels a lot like a free hit, but they must turn up big and avoid a real hammering.

The Blades have been on the receiving end of high-scoring losses this season, which has contributed badly to their goal difference. If it comes down to goals deducted at the end of the season, the Blades are in trouble as they currently have the worst in that regard in the league.

For Arsenal, it’s a game to deal with professionally. There are tougher games ahead, including the Champions League home game against FC Porto. One game at a time is the logical approach; they need to continue their dominant form to send signals to rivals.

The Gunners have a near-fit squad. Jurrien Timber is back in training and could make the bench against Sheffield. Takehiro Tomiyasu is the only one who hasn’t trained recently, and that means everyone else, including Thomas Partey and Gabriel Jesus, is available.

Mason Holgate was sent off in Sheffield’s 5-0 loss at Brighton; he continues to serve his suspensions while the trio of John Egan, Rhyan Brewster, and Cameron Archer remain unavailable. George Baldock could return, while Chris Basham is expected to feature soon.

Verdict: Arsenal to win