Arsenal v. Vitoria SC preview: play it (again) Sam

I swear I’ve been here before, and I’m getting tired of waking up to Sonny and Cher’s “I Got You Babe.” Arsenal are gearing up for a Thursday Europa League fixture after an extremely disappointing result at the weekend. This week’s menu features a visit from Vitória S.C. of the Portuguese Primeira Liga to back up a Sheffield United amuse-bouche.

The Gunners are in need, once again, of a palate cleanser, and Os Vimaranenses should provide one. Thursday’s visitors have dropped their first two matches in the Europa League and have yet to score a goal in the competition. They could also be without as many as nine first team players for tomorrow’s tilt at the Emirates.

Emile Smith Rowe has recovered from the concussion he sustained against Standard Liege and is available for selection. Nathan predicted he would start on the bench; I think ESR has a good shot at starting.

Héctor Bellerín and Kieran Tierney should start at outside back. But with both coming off significant injury, using them midweek means they likely will not be available at the weekend. At what point is Unai Emery going to close the loop and get them back into Premier League action? The PL lineup needs a change to spark the attack; they would provide it.

With the dark clouds swirling around the Emirates and the supposedly unavoidable doom and gloom on the horizon, I think we all should take the sage words of Doc Brown to heart.

Or if you can’t watch the video, remember: “Your future hasn’t been written yet. No one’s has. Your future is whatever you make it. So make it a good one.”

WHAT: Arsenal v. Vitória Guimarães

WHERE: Emirates Stadium

WHEN: Thursday, August 24th 12 PM PT | 3 PM ET | 8 PM BST

US TV: TUDN USA in Spanish. Streaming in English on B / R Live ($$$).

For all your international streaming needs, check livesoccer.tv. As always, please do not discuss links to illegal streams here.