Arsenal versus Leicester City preview: 5 key points to watch

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LEICESTER, ENGLAND – FEBRUARY 02: Jamie Vardy of Leicester City scores his team’s second goal while Dejan Lovren of Liverpool tries to block during the Barclays Premier League match between Leicester City and Liverpool at The King Power Stadium on February 2, 2016 in Leicester, England. (Photo by Michael Regan/Getty Images) /

2. Can Arsenal’s centre backs keep up with Jamie Vardy?

Wenger’s choice of starting centre backs is one of the most intriguing starting selections of this match. Per Mertesacker has been a regular fixture in Wenger’s back four but his lack of pace could cost the Gunners dearly. He couldn’t catch Vardy or Mahrez with a five-second head start.

That’s why Wenger is reportedly considering starting Gabriel in Mertesacker’s place. The Daily Mail reports that Wenger is “agonising” over the choice between Mertesacker and Gabriel. The latter has started the last three Premier League matches in Mertesacker’s red card suspension.

Whichever man he chooses will need to play one of their better matches if they intend to keep Vardy quiet. He’s been outstanding this season, and his pace on the break will test Arsenal’s back four to their absolute limits. He only needs to get a step on Arsenal’s centre back pairing once to provide a decisive goal for his side.

In fairness, the task of stopping Vardy is going to need to be taken up by Arsenal’s entire back four and their defensive midfield pairing. It’s not going to be a job for just the central back pairing. They just happen to be the last line of defense against the prolific Englishman. If they switch off even for an instant, it could mean a devastating goal to Arsenal’s title hopes.

Next: 1. Can Leicester adjust to being the hunted team?

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