Champions League: Arsenal v Schalke 04 match preview

A look ahead to tonight's Champions League fixture at the Emirates

Simon Rice
Thursday 25 October 2012 11:29 BST
Comments
Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger
Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger (GETTY IMAGES)

Your support helps us to tell the story

From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.

At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.

The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.

Your support makes all the difference.

Arsenal welcome German outfit Schalke 04 to the Emirates tonight with the Gunners looking to maintain their 100 per cent record in the Champions League so far.

A win for the home side would virtually guarantee their progress to the next round, with a certain five point cushion over their nearest rivals if they emerge victorious. If they're to do it, it'll be without Theo Walcott and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain who are both injured.

While the Gunners were losing to Norwich at the weekend, Schalke were beating German champions Borussia Dortmund. Arsene Wenger has been talking up his opponents this week, saying: "They are a team with few superstars, but they have good players in every position."

The most recognisable player for the visitors will be Klass Jan Huntelaar, who notched 27 goals in 28 appearances last season and has been linked with a transfer to just about every club in Europe.

KICK-OFF: Wednesday, 7.45pm

PAST MEETINGS…

Schalke 3 (Mulder, Vermant, Moller) Arsenal 1 (Wiltord), Champions League, October 2001

Arsenal 3 (Henry 2, Ljungberg) Schalke 2 (Hoogdalem, Mpenza), Champions League, September 2001

STATS…

Schalke are yet to lose away from home this season, although they have not won in England in five attempts.

Arsenal have not lost at home to foreign opponents in the Champions League in 43 matches.

FURTHER READING...

Arsene Wenger is anxious for Arsenal to qualify from Champions League quickly as his annual shareholder grilling looms

Arsenal cannot lose further ground in title race admits Arsene Wenger

To fly or not to fly: Was it acceptable for Arsenal to charter a flight to Norwich?

TV: Live on Sky Sports 4 at 7.45pm.

Join our commenting forum

Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies

Comments

Thank you for registering

Please refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in