Ex-Gunners star Paul Merson is backing Arsenal to get a comfortable win when they face Fulham at Craven Cottage on Sunday afternoon.

While both play an attacking brand of football, Merson believes Mikel Arteta’s side will have the quality to see off their opponents this weekend:

“Arsenal are probably going to be just two points clear of Manchester City by the time they start this game. The Gunners need to keep their lead over City intact until the two sides meet next (27 April) or at least until Arsenal play Liverpool (9 April) away from home.”

“They have to win this game. Fulham have done great but they’ll miss Joao Palhinha dearly. Fulham are not playing Arsenal off the pitch in this one. Both teams play expansive football and if the better players rise to the occasion, Arsenal should be able to get the win here.”

Merson has gone with a 3-0 victory for the Gunners, which is a pretty bold prediction considering the Cottagers have a very good home record this season.

They have only lost three out of 13 matches on their own ground, and they have taken points off the likes of Liverpool, Chelsea and Brighton.

However, as Merson says, one of their key players in the middle of the park, Joao Palhinha, is unavailable due to suspension. The Portuguese international is usually the man who breaks up opposition attacks.

Without him, Arsenal may get greater freedom to do what they want and, for that reason, they should come out on top.