RVP
Robin van Persie has been on top of his game this season. Reuters

After a two-week layoff, Arsenal travel to Carrow Road to face Norwich City in search of their fifth-straight Premier League victory, on Saturday.

The Gunners have rebounded from their poor start of the season, and moved into seventh place, in large part due to steady play from the central defense, and the goal-scoring prowess of striker Robin van Persie.

The addition of Per Mertesacker, along with the improved play of Laurent Koscielny, and the return of Thomas Vermaelen, has been a relief for Arsenal, a club that has had its share of problems with centre backs last season.

Arsenal have scored 11 goals in their last four matches, and van Persie has scored eight of them, while playing a key role in others. It seems that Arsene Wenger currently has the best forward in the Premier League.

While van Persie is being hailed for his hot streak, the Dutch forward has directed compliments to Wenger for providing guidance. Wenger, an embattled manager in the early part of the season, is hoping to keep van Persie at Emirates as there has been little progress in contract-extension talks.

Arsenal still have key players battling injuries: Jack Wilshere (ankle), Bacary Sagna (ankle), Marouane Chamakh (knee), Carl Jenkinson (back), Kieran Gibbs (stomach), Abou Diaby (ankle).

Norwich are winless in their last three matches, and are coming off a 3-2 loss to Aston Villa. The promoted Canaries have made a strong start to their Premier League campaign while currently in ninth place.

The blue-collar squad is led by veteran striker Grant Holt. The captain has three goals on the season, and one assist. Anthony Pilkington leads the club with four goals, and his fellow Irishman Wes Hoolahan is known for being a tireless attacking midfielder.

A player to watch for is right back Kyle Naughton. The 23-year-old is on loan from Tottenham and has been the target of transfer speculation from Sunderland and Fulham.

History is not on the Canaries side. In their last three head-to-head Premier League matches, Arsenal have scored at least four goals, and only given up one goal in each match.

PREDICTION: At home, Norwich will pose a tough challenge for the Gunners. Expect strong defense from the Canaries, but for Arsenal to get a goal and hold on to the lead for most of the match, as Norwich fight hard to level.

PREDICTED SCORE: Norwich 0, Arsenal 1.