Theo Walcott could return for the Gunners after missing out against Wolves following stomach complaints. If so the England man will start alongside Robin van Persie, who needs two goals to equal Alan Shearer’s Premier League record of 36 goals in a calendar year.
Meanwhile, Johan Djourou and Thomas Vermaelen look set to retain their places at full-back with Bacary Sagna, Carl Jenkinson and Andre Santos all still sidelined.
The visitors look set to welcome back Shaun Wright-Phillips to the starting lineup, meaning Adel Taarabt could drop to the bench. Armand Traore and Jay Bothroyd will be hoping for the chance to impress against their former club.
- If Arsenal score against QPR, it will be their 300th Premier League goal in London derbies.
- Van Persie (right) needs two goals to match Alan Shearer’s Premier League record of 36 goals in a calendar year.
- The last meeting between the two sides was back in 2006 at Loftus Road, when Arsenal ran out comprehensive 6-0 winners in the FA Cup fourth round.
- QPR have averaged just a goal a game in the league this season, only Swansea and Wigan have worse goal ratios.
- Arsenal have failed to score more than once in each of their last four games at the Emirates.
- The Hoops have managed just one win in their last 12 visits to Arsenal.
- QPR have won only one of their 11 Premier League games this season in which their opponents have scored first.
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