Charlie Nicholas states his prediction for Arsenal v Red Star Belgrade
The Arsenal legend is backing Arsene Wenger's side to ease to a comfortable win against Red Star Belgrade this weekend
Charlie Nicholas is confident Arsenal will ease to a comfortable win against Red Star Belgrade in the Europa League on Thursday night.
The Gunners are looking to record their fourth successive Europa League victory to book their place in the round of 32.
Arsenal were 1-0 winners against Red Star Belgrade in Serbia last time out after Olivier Giroud scored a late winner to seal three points.
The north London side secure their return to the Champions League if Arsenal win the Europa League like Manchester United managed to do last term.
The Gunners will make the trip to Premier League leaders Manchester City in their next top-flight outing at the Etihad Stadium on Sunday afternoon.
Former Arsenal midfielder Nicholas is confident Arsene Wenger’s side will record three points even if the Gunners boss makes wholesale changes to his starting line-up.
“Belgrade weren’t bad in the reverse fixture and clearly have some talented youngsters in their ranks, but Arsenal have quality in depth,” Nicholas told Sky Sports.
“It will largely be the kids mixed in with a few players looking to play their way into Arsene Wenger’s thoughts for Super Sunday’s clash with Manchester City.”
Nicholas added: “I see another comfortable night even if Arsenal, even if the mass changes makes it more complicated than it would be otherwise.”
Arsenal finished in fifth place in the Premier League table last term to miss out on a place in the Champions League.
The Gunners signed Lyon striker Alexandre Lacazette and Schalke 04 defender Sead Kolasinac in the summer transfer window.
The north London side haven’t won the Premier League title since 2003-04 when Thierry Henry and Patrick Vieira inspired the Gunners to an unbeaten season.
