Arsenal v Leeds Tips

There will be a buzz around the Emirates on Monday night as a legend returns for the Gunners, to take on Leeds United. Thierry Henry is 34 now, but he certainly used to enjoy playing against the Whites. He scored 11 in 11 appearances against the Yorkshire side, including four in his final appearance against them at Highbury. It would seem a little much to expect a similar return on his comeback! He is 9/2 (Betfred) to open the scoring however.

The lift the Frenchman will give the club could be significant. Arsene Wenger has promised to field close to his strongest side with the notable exception of Robin Van Persie, who has been granted leave for a family holiday. I expect there to be goals in this match with both sides missing plenty of key defenders.

Arsenal absentees through injury include Thomas Vermaelen, Bacary Sagna, Carl Jenkinson and Andre Santos; Johan Djourou will also be missing through suspension.

Leeds suffered a serious blow last week upon hearing that key defender Patrick Kisnorbo will miss the rest of the season with a knee injury. He may be joined on the sidelines for this one by Tom Lees and Alex Bruce as Simon Grayson attempts to find a back line for the daunting trip to the capital.

Ladbrokes offer 6/5 on there being more than 3.5 goals in the match and that looks highly probable in the circumstances.