BBC football pundit Mark Lawrenson has stated his prediction for the Premier League season opener between Arsenal and Brentford at the Brentford Community Stadium.
The Gunners make the trip to west London to face the Bees, who are back in the top-flight after seven decades.
Mikel Arteta’s side will be favourites for the London derby, but Lawrenson has doubts over them.
The Gunners struggled for consistency last term as they finished a lowly eighth in the standings.
Lawrenson feels Brentford could benefit from the home support and secure a 1-1 draw.
He said: “I fancy them to get something out of this one, because they are at home and in front of their fans.”
“We also don’t know what to expect from Arsenal, in terms of form or how their fitness will compare with the Bees.”
The Gunners have won on the first match day of the last two Premier League campaigns.
However, their pre-season form was far from impressive with one draw and three defeats in four broadcasted games.
Their only victory came behind closed doors against Watford towards the end of last month.
The pressure will be right on them on Friday night. It remains to be seen whether they can start off with a win.
Stats from Transfermarkt.com
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