Arsenal vs FC Zurich: 3 things to look out for as top spot beckons

Granit Xhaka is suspended for Thursday’s game. (Photo by Marc Atkins/Getty Images)

3. The energy levels

Arsenal are approaching the end of what can only be described as a gruelling run of fixtures. Since October 1, the Gunners have played nine games with minimal rotation.

There are only four games before the football world stops for the World Cup. Four games to push through and get results.

The World Cup is coming at a good time for Arsenal - fatigue and injuries are highlighting the lack of depth and there’s definitely been a drop in performance. If we can scrape together 3 victories of the next 4 (with one against Zurich) we’ll have done exceptionally well.
— Chris Godfrey (@ChrisPJGodfrey) October 28, 2022

Arsenal looked a little leggy before Sunday’s rout over Nottingham Forest, and the results suffered. Four games between Thursday night and November 13. That’s the assignment.

But given what is at stake, Arsenal need those energy levels up to secure top spot in Group A.