Arsenal is preparing for a crucial Premier League match against Brentford, looking to secure their third consecutive league victory. The Gunners previously defeated Brentford 2-0 in December, but they will miss both of the goal scorers from that match, Mikel Merino, who is out for the season due to a broken foot, and Bukayo Saka, who is recovering from an injury sustained in January. This situation puts pressure on manager Mikel Arteta to rethink his strategy and lineup.

As Arsenal approaches this match, the absence of key players highlights the team's depth and adaptability issues. While Saka's return may come sooner than Merino's, the squad will need to step up in their absence to maintain momentum in the title chase. The upcoming schedule includes a run of important fixtures, including an FA Cup match against Wigan and league games against Wolves and Tottenham, stressing the need for a strong performance on Thursday.

Moreover, the situation shows that Arsenal's ambitions for the Premier League title are not only dependent on their current form but also on the health of their leading players. As they navigate this challenging period, it's crucial for Arteta to leverage the talents of other players in the squad and maintain focus, as every match counts towards their goal of securing the Premier League trophy.