3 reasons why Reiss Nelson deserves to start against Nottingham Forest

2. The key to unlocking stubborn Forest

Our hosts are possibly one win away from preserving their top-flight status and will insist on a committed, defensive setup to try to get it.

Despite his willingness to control the ball, Steve Cooper typically employs a 5-3-2 shape out of possession and crowds the midfield to stop teams playing through central areas, with minimal space in behind forcing the opponent into the channels.

Such a game state is likely to transpire this weekend and could be ideal for Nelson, whose dribbling and expertise in tight situations will help to break down the low block. Additionally, his combination play and secure ball-carrying suggest he can bring others into the match and prevent Forest from winning any turnovers, which would nullify their counter-attacking approach.

The City Ground will be rocking and an early goal might help the Gunners’ cause.

Continued on the next slide…