Craven Cottage seems to stir something feisty in Fulham, whose discipline falters dramatically at home. Averaging 2.31 yellow cards per match this season, this spikes to 3 cards per game at home, with all seven of their home fixtures seeing them receive at least two bookings. Arsenal, meanwhile, are adept at drawing cards from their opponents, with their opposition averaging 2.38 cards per game this season – rising to 2.73 in away matches and an even higher 3.14 in Premier League games. In 7 of Arsenal’s 11 away matches this season, their opponents have received two or more cards, further validating this pick.

The linchpin of Arsenal’s attack, Bukayo Saka consistently influences games with his offensive contributions. Averaging 2.89 shots per match, Saka has attempted at least two shots in 11 of his last 13 appearances. With Arsenal chasing maximum points to keep pace with Liverpool at the top, Saka is expected to maintain his aggressive pursuit of goals, making this a solid selection.

Operating centrally, Kai Havertz continues to demonstrate reliability in front of goal. With an average of 2.25 shots per game and 0.9 on target, he’s hit the mark in five of his last 7 matches. Likely to play as Arsenal’s frontman on Sunday, Havertz has every opportunity to test Fulham’s defence with at least one shot on target.

Saka’s electrifying pace on Arsenal’s right side attracts persistent fouling from defenders. Averaging 1.79 fouls drawn per game, he’s been fouled at least twice in 8 of his last 11 starts. Facing Fulham’s vulnerable left-hand side that has committed 11 fouls in their last four matches, Saka is well-positioned to draw multiple fouls once more.

Saka’s impact on Arsenal’s success is undeniable, with 7 goals and 11 assists this season. Even more impressively, he has contributed to 7 of Arsenal’s last 15 goals across their last 4 matches. Whether as a scorer or provider, Saka’s creative spark will likely shine again in this matchup against Fulham.

Aggression is a hallmark of Sasa Lukic’s game, often landing him in trouble with referees. With five cards in just nine starts this season, his return from suspension makes him a prime candidate for another booking this Sunday. Tasked with dealing with Arsenal’s dangerous right-sided trio of Saka, Martin Ødegaard, and Jurrien Timber – who have collectively drawn 21 fouls in their last five games – Lukic’s physical approach will likely see him cautioned.

Alex Iwobi has emerged as a key attacking outlet for Fulham, with his brace against Brighton midweek showcasing his precision in front of goal. Averaging 0.88 shots on target per game from 1.56 attempts, Iwobi has hit the target in each of his last six appearances. With 8 goal contributions this season, he’s poised to test Arsenal’s defence once again.

While Saka is Arsenal’s attacking talisman, his defensive responsibilities often lead to fouls. Averaging 1.16 fouls per game, he has committed at least one foul in 9 of his last 10 starts and 2+ fouls in 6 of those. Up against Fulham’s left back Antonee Robinson and likely to face wingers Iwobi or Adama Traore who have drawn 5 fouls in their last five games combined – Saka’s defensive involvement makes this selection highly likely.