Lawro being optimistic about us againQuote:
Stoke v Arsenal
Arsenal really need to kick on in the chase for the Champions League spot, especially because only third place will get them in if Chelsea win this year's final. The Blues beating Barcelona has certainly spiced up the end of the season for Arsene Wenger's side and the teams immediately below them.
The Gunners had a firm grasp on third not so long ago but they have hit the buffers a little bit in recent weeks, and dropping points at home against Wigan and Chelsea means they really need to return to winning ways here.
I'm not sure they will manage it at the Britannia Stadium because Stoke always seem to give them a good game there - Arsenal have lost on three of their last four visits.
On the positive side for Wenger, Robin van Persie was deservedly crowned the Professional Footballers' Association's Player of the Year and Footballer Writers' Association Footballer of the Year this week. He has not only had a brilliant season, he has completely resurrected their campaign
It's not just the goals on their own, it is the quality of them - and the fact he can make them for others too. He has also steered clear of injuries, which is something he has struggled with in the past.
Van Persie's contract runs out in the summer of 2013 of course and, if they want him to sign a new deal, they will have to give him a fortune - which will make a difference to what they have to pay everyone else.
It is a big decision but, if they let him leave, they are going to have to replace him and probably spend a lot of money in the process. Will whoever they buy be as good as Van Persie has been this season? Absolutely no chance. I think Wenger has to bite the bullet and give him the dough.
Prediction: 1-1
