From Arsenal.com
Talking tactics
Adrian Clarke: Slavia began their Champions League campaign using a 4-2-3-1 formation in a thrilling 2-2 draw with Bodo/Glimt, but away to Inter Milan and Atalanta, they deployed a more cautious 3-4-2-1. Domestically, Slavia are an aggressive, attacking side, but on the big stage, they have to modify their tactics. They will not just soak up pressure all game – they are averaging 44% possession – but they will almost certainly relinquish control.
They like to attack down the wings, and no team in the competition has made more successful open play crosses (15). Key to that is Czech international Lukas Provod [above], a tall, rangy attacking midfielder, who is their biggest threat. He will probably be used as their right-sided No.10, with an inclination to drift wide. His fabulous far post deliveries assisted left wing-back Youssoupha Mbodji for a quality brace on matchday one.
Provod has created nine chances from open play in three appearances, the same as diminutive forward Vasil Kusej, who will be their left-sided No.10. He is a tricky, hardworking player who will hassle our defenders.
When we have the ball, the hosts will be hostile, getting tight to us and making tackles. One of their key strengths is their ability to recover possession, so we must be wary of transitions. However, Slavia have given up a lot of chances across their three fixtures, and their 9.1 expected goals against is the fourth-highest among the 36 teams, so we should have opportunities to score.