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Premier League preview: Arsenal v Norwich

Premier League preview: Arsenal v Norwich



Inconsistent winger Gervinho could be the key for Arsenal when they host Norwich in the English Premier League with third spot on the line.
Gervinho has been a popular target for disgruntled Arsenal fans this season as the London-based side have failed yet again to challenge for the Premier League title but with two goals and three assists in Arsenal's past three fixtures, the 25-year-old Ivory Coast international has found top form.

Arsenal can boost their UEFA Champions League qualification hopes and move from fifth into third spot in the English Premier League with a win over Norwich at the Emirates on Saturday and Gervinho could well be critical to the home side's chances.

The former Lille man set up the opening goal in Arsenal's 2-1 win over West Bromwich Albion last week, while he played a role in three of his team's four goals in their 4-1 thumping of Reading on March 30.

With Tottenham Hotspur, who sit in fourth, and third-placed Chelsea out of action this weekend due to the latter's involvement in the FA Cup semi-finals, Arsenal will rise to third on 59 points, one point ahead of the other two London clubs, if Arsene Wenger's side can beat their East Anglian opponents.

Norwich should have some confidence heading to north London, however, as they have only lost to Arsenal once in three games since they were promoted to the Premier League at the end of the 2010/11 season.

That loss came in November last year, followed by a 3-3 draw at the Emirates in May before a 1-0 win at Carrow Road in October.

While Norwich have some good memories in matches against Arsenal, manager Chris Hughton will no doubt be concerned about his side's form since the start of March.

Hughton's side have not won since they defeated Everton 2-1 on February 23, losing twice and drawing three times, including last week's 2-2 draw against Swansea.

Norwich, who sit 14th in the Premier League, four spots and four points above the drop zone, will take any points they can get as the relegation battle continues.

In a boost for Hughton, injured duo John Ruddy (thigh) and Anthony Pilkington (hamstring) could both be available against Arsenal, while the home side expect Theo Walcott (hip/thigh) and Jack Wilshere (ankle) to press for selection.

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