“So I think” – John Terry highlights “really important” factor which will help Chelsea beat Arsenal | OneFootball

John Terry believes Chelsea scoring the first goal will be a crucial factor in Sunday’s game against Arsenal at the Emirates.

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The Blues head into the London derby on the back of consecutive draws against Leeds and Burnley, as their hopes of Champions League qualification suffered a blow.

Chelsea sit fifth level on points with Liverpool in sixth, and three points behind fourth placed Manchester United in what is a really tight race.

John Terry on Arsenal vs Chelsea

Chelsea are in fact looking for a first win against Arsenal since 2021, and this will be the fourth time the two sides have met this season.

The game at Stamford Bridge ended in a draw, whilst the Blues lost both legs of the Carabao Cup semi final earlier this year.

Chelsea are preparing for their fourth game against Arsenal this season. (Photo by Clive Mason/Getty Images)

Paul Merson has predicted a Chelsea defeat, whilst Terry has stated scoring the first goal will be crucial for the Blues.

“So I think scoring the first goal for us this weekend is really important,” he said on TikTok.

“That will force Arsenal to then come out and then gaps will appear. And we’ve seen that in more recent weeks at both home and away for Arsenal.

“Also, set plays, they’re fantastic at set plays as well. And the big one is that big long ball around the back post where they look for the second phase.

“So it’s not often the first phase pass that gets their goal, it’s the second phase as well.”

Chelsea need to be switched on from set pieces

Micah Richards has labelled Chelsea’s defending from balls into the box as poor, and Terry warned how important set pieces will be.

“So we need to be really aggressive from set plays, from corners especially, first phase, second phase, and make sure we’re as good as them in both boxes this weekend,” he added.

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“But a tough game. We’ve shown all season that not only have we matched them, but actually been the better side on two separate occasions as well, both in the league and the cup game at home.

“So hopefully we can put on a really good performance again. I’m excited for this game and hopefully we can get the three points.”

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