According to Rio Ferdinand, Arsenal requires a formidable attacking force in order to resolve their issues with scoring goals.

Martin Keown and Rio Ferdinand, two former defenders, have expressed their belief that Arsenal’s lack of goals will hinder their chances of challenging for the Premier League title this season. Currently sitting five points behind league leaders Liverpool, Arsenal have the worst goal return of any club in the top five, with only 37 goals scored so far.

However, Keown remains optimistic, stating that if Arsenal can start finding the net more regularly, they could still have a shot at winning the league. Keown emphasized the importance of the players moving on from recent disappointments and regaining their confidence in front of goal. He suggested that drawing a line on what has happened before and starting afresh would be beneficial for the team.

Keown also acknowledged the challenge that Crystal Palace poses, particularly with their defensive style of play. He expressed surprise at Palace manager Roy Hodgson’s decision to adopt a 3-5-2 formation, which puts the onus on Arsenal to break down their opponent.

Ferdinand agreed that Arsenal has improved defensively this season, praising the addition of Declan Rice and the partnership of the two centre-backs. However, he argued that Arsenal lacks the quality up front to match Manchester City, who he believes have set the benchmark this season. Ferdinand highlighted the need for Arsenal to find a balance in the team and find a lethal weapon in attack.

Keown speculated that Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta plans to give forwards Kai Havertz and Gabriel Jesus the opportunity to prove themselves over the rest of the season, rather than seeking reinforcements in the transfer market. He suggested that Arteta is willing to make major decisions at the club but wants to give the current group of players another chance. Keown also urged Jesus to focus more on goalscoring and less on involving himself across the pitch.

Ferdinand pointed out that other players, such as Martin Odegaard and Gabriel Martinelli, were also less effective in front of goal last season. He stressed the importance of having a selfish streak as a striker and the desire to be the top goalscorer at the club. Ferdinand believes that Jesus should stay in the 18-yard box and prioritize scoring goals, even if it means not being involved in other areas of the game.

For those looking to watch the Arsenal vs Crystal Palace match, it will be broadcasted on TNT Sports 1 and ultimate, with coverage starting at 11:00 on Saturday, January 20, ahead of kick-off at 12:30. TNT Sports is available through various TV platforms, including BT, EE, Sky, and Virgin Media.