Former Arsenal midfielder Paul Merson has accused Arsene Wenger of making "excuses" ahead of his side's Premier League clash with Manchester United on Saturday.

The day's early kickoff will see Wenger come up against old foe Jose Mourinho once again, with the Frenchman having won just one of his previous 15 meetings with the former Chelsea boss.

Wenger could be without Alexis Sanchez following his international exploits with Chile, but Merson believes that the Arsenal boss is getting his excuses in early.

"I think this will be a draw. Arsenal thought they could turn up in February and win, and ended up getting beaten 3-2," he told Sky Sports News.

"Wenger is moaning about Alexis Sanchez and Chile, I think he's just starting to make excuses already. Really, Arsenal should win this game on form, but with Jose Mourinho's record against Wenger, I think he has a hold over him. I'm going 1-1.

"I think Mourinho's record over Wenger makes a big difference. People aren't really expecting United to win this, with Arsenal playing well, but I'm going one each."

Arsenal are unbeaten in their last 16 games across all competitions heading into the match, while United have won just two of their last eight in the Premier League.