It looks as though Arsenal’s preparations for the return of the Premier League are due to start earlier than first expected.

It’s been reported by The Athletic that the Gunners are due to play Championship side Watford in a friendly this week.

Whilst the exact date is yet to be confirmed, the game will be played behind closed doors as a warm up ahead of the start of the Dubai Super Cup that’s due to start in a few weeks’ time.

It’ll be a good chance for Mikel Arteta’s players that have not been involved in the World Cup to prepare for their all-important Premier League clash with West Ham United on boxing day, where the Gunners will look to keep their run of good form going.

Whilst Arsenal’s international talents are away, Arteta will use this time to venture into other options to accommodate the gaps of his unavailable starters who of course will require breaks after the World Cup.

Watford currently sit at fourth in the ever-competitive Championship and should provide a good opening test for the Gunners.