Why Arsenal are wearing black armbands for Chelsea Premier League clash

Arsenal have chosen to wear black armbands for the Premier League clash against Chelsea following the recent passing of Sir Chips Keswick.

The lifelong Gunners supporter, who later joined the board and became chairman, sadly passed away last week with Arteta paying a touching tribute in his pre-match press conference. "To his family, very grateful," he said. "He was chairman when I was captain.

"He’s a person and a figure who was very well respected and loved around the football club. He’s done a lot to evolve and progress this football club and protect the values of the club. He needs to rest in peace now."

For seven years, Keswick was employed as chairman which resulted in him overseeing the club's regular Champions League participation along with two FA Cup victories.

In the London derby, the Gunners got off to the perfect start with Leandro Trossard finishing from a tight angle after a mazy run forward by Declan Rice.

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Kai Havertz and Bukayo Saka were among those to test Dorde Petrovic in the opening 30 minutes with Thomas Partey and Declan Rice also going close. At the other end, a determined run and cross from Nicolas Jackson nearly resulted in a goal with Gabriel Magalhaes' attempted block striking the post before going behind.