West Ham vs Arsenal (1-2) May 1, 2022 Match Preview and Stats

Arsenal have been given a boost this week at the news that Bukayo Saka will likely be passed fit to face West Ham.

In last week’s 3-1 victory against Manchester United, Saka was forced off injured with 15 minutes to go due to a slight injury.

According to Mikel Arteta, the England international should be okay to feature against the Hammers.

“Hopefully he [Saka] will be fine. He had some issues in the final part of the game but he’s recovered well and we expect him to be available,” the Arsenal manager told reporters.

That means that the only two major absentees for the Gunners will be Kieran Tierney and Thomas Partey.

It is unlikely we will see either of that duo again this season.

Takehiro Tomiyasu made an appearance against Man Utd, but is on the road back from a spell out, so Cedric could start again.

Aaron Ramsdale will start behind a back four of Cedric, Ben White, Gabriel and Nuno Tavares.

Mohamed Elneny and Granit Xhaka will continue in central midfield.

Emile Smith Rowe was withdrawn just after the hour mark against Man Utd, so we may see Gabriel Martinelli come into the attacking midfield three alongside Martin Odegaard and Saka.

Alexandre Lacazette could replace Eddie Nketiah up top.