With all of the Premier League's other top teams stuttering, Arsenal suddenly look like genuine title contenders. Their 3-0 demolition of Manchester United before the international break was as impressive as any performance Arsène Wenger's men have produced in an awfully long time, and it ensured they stayed within two points of league leaders and title favorites Manchester City. Of course, this is the Gunners we're talking about, and there's plenty of time for things to go pear shaped yet, but for now things are looking up.
Arsenal vs. Watford 2015 live stream: Game time, TV schedule and how to watch online
Arsenal will look to avoid an upset away at Watford in Saturday’s late Premier League kickoff.
Shaun Botterill/Getty Images
They'll hope to add another three point to their tally away at newly-promoted Watford in Saturday's late kickoff, though they certainly shouldn't make the mistake of underestimating their opponents. Quique Sánchez Flores' men have started the season reasonably well, and sit level on points with Swansea City after eight matches. That, combined with home advantage, should ensure that this is a competitive game.
Key player: Odion Ighalo (Watford)
The impressive performances of Odion Ighalo are a big reason why Watford have fared so well so far this season. The Nigerian striker has been on top form, and his five goals ensure he trails only Jamie Vardy and Sergio Agüero in the list of Premier League's top scorers. Powerful and yet precise, he has the ability to cause big problems for the Gunners' center-halves.
Key matchup: Alexis Sánchez vs. Watford’s right back
Alexis Sánchez started the season a little sluggishly -- perhaps not surprising given that he was hurried back from Chile’s victorious Copa América campaign. However, his performance against Manchester United before the break suggested he’s finally getting back to his best, and he’ll give Watford’s right back a tough game -- especially if their regular starter Allan Nyom is ruled out with a knee injury.
Watford injuries and suspensions
Out: Joel Ekstrand (knee). In doubt: Valon Behrami, Ikechi Anya (calf/shin); José Jurado (hamstring); Lloyd Doyley (neck); Allan Nyom (knee).
Arsenal injuries and suspensions
Out: Jack Wilshere (calf/shin); Danny Welbeck, Tomáš Rosický (knee). In doubt: Laurent Koscielny (hamstring).
Arsenal will still be without Wilshere, Welbeck and Rosický, but are waiting on the fitness of Koscielny. Sánchez should still play, despite featuring heavily for Chile over the international break.
Meanwhile, Watford’s only certain absentee is Joel Ekstrand, though they have several first team players who face a race to recover in time for this match.
Match Date/Time: Sat., Oct. 17, 12:30 p.m. ET, 5:30 p.m. local
Venue: Vicarage Road, London, England
TV: NBC (US - English), Telemundo (US - Spanish), Sportsnet regional networks (Canada), Sky Sports 1/HD (U.K.)
Online: NBC Sports Live Extra (US - English), NBC Deportes En Vivo Extra (US - Spanish), Sportsnet World Online (Canada), Sky Go (U.K.)
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