Wood’s hot streak poses threat to Arsenal’s title ambitions | OneFootball

Arsenal will return to Premier League action this weekend as they host a formidable Nottingham Forest side at the Emirates Stadium on Saturday.

With the international break behind them, the Gunners enter a critical stretch of uninterrupted football, aiming to close the gap on the league leaders.

Currently fourth in the table, Mikel Arteta’s side are nine points behind first-placed Liverpool and four adrift of Manchester City.

A win feels essential to maintain their title aspirations.

However, facing Forest will be a daunting challenge. Nuno Espirito Santo’s team have defied expectations this season, sitting fifth in the league after an impressive start.

Their robust defensive record – the second-best in the league with just ten goals conceded in 11 matches – has underpinned their success.

Forest have also proven they can thrive against top opposition, claiming a notable win at Liverpool earlier this season.

Adding to Arsenal’s concerns is Chris Wood’s sensational form. The 32-year-old forward has been a revelation for Forest, netting eight Premier League goals this term.

His tally places him alongside Mohamed Salah and Bryan Mbeumo, with only Erling Braut Haaland scoring more.

Wood’s clinical edge has been instrumental in Forest’s rise and could pose significant problems for Arsenal’s defence.

His recent international performances only amplify the threat he brings to this fixture. Representing New Zealand during the November break, he scored twice in an 8-1 victory over Vanuatu before adding a hat-trick in an 8-0 rout of Samoa.

Those five goals not only secured New Zealand’s top spot in their OFC World Cup qualifying group but also boosted Wood’s confidence ahead of his return to domestic duties.

Reflecting on his international exploits, Wood downplayed individual accolades, instead highlighting the team’s achievements.

“It’s always about the team,” he said after reaching 41 international goals. “Progressing to the next round is the focus, but it’s nice to add a few goals along the way.”

As Wood rejoins Forest’s preparations, Nuno will be eager to channel his striker’s prolific form into Saturday’s contest.

For Arsenal, containing Wood will be a priority in what promises to be a tightly contested affair.

Arteta will back his squad’s defensive capabilities, but with Wood in this kind of form, the Gunners may be tested to the limit against a Forest side brimming with confidence.