Paul Merson shares ‘only way Chelsea have a chance’ of beating Arsenal

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Chelsea and Arsenal lock horns in a huge Premier League London derby on Sunday.

The Blues go into the game against the Gunners on the back of an 8-0 thumping of Noah FC in the Europa Conference League, a game in which Enzo Fernandez shone.

Meanwhile, Arsenal will be desperate to get back to winning ways before the international break after losing their last two games in all competitions.

Highbury legend Paul Merson has now shared what he thinks is “the only way Chelsea have a chance” of beating Mikel Arteta’s side.

Paul Merson says Arsenal will beat Chelsea if Cole Palmer doesn’t play’

Merson, writing on Sportskeeda, believes the Blues can only triumph against Arsenal if Cole Palmer is fit enough to start.

The Gunners icon stressed that “Arsenal win this game” if the England international is absent in wake of his knock against Manchester United.

“Arsenal win this game if Cole Palmer doesn’t play,” said Merson. “It’s as simple as that.

“The only way Chelsea have a chance is if Palmer plays from the start. He is the heartbeat and he makes everything happen for Chelsea.”

What Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca has said about Palmer fitness ahead of Arsenal clash

Although Palmer is walking freely after picking up a knock against the Red Devils, he missed most of the club’s training sessions this week.

“He’s better. He’s getting better,” Maresca said at his pre-match presser. “If he can walk and have dinner, that doesn’t mean he is completely fit.

“He’s getting better. Hopefully we can have him for the session at least on Saturday and then we can take a decision.”

Merson’s Chelsea v Arsenal prediction

Merson feels Arsenal will be out of the Premier League title race if they fail to beat the West Londoners.

Somewhat ominously for the Gunners, he predicted a 2-2 draw owing to their recent poor run across all competitions.

Merson said: “If you are ten and eight points behind Liverpool and City after this gameweek, you’re done in the title race!

“I don’t care if there are 27 games still left in the season, Liverpool and City are not losing that many games.

“I’m going for a (2-2) draw here, big result for Chelsea but Arsenal will be out of the title race.”