Both these English giants won their recent weekend games, with both on a very good run of form. In a match still regarded as one of the league’s stellar encounters, there is much anticipation as to how the game will unravel. Mikel Arteta seems to have turned the tide of his Arsenal side, and Jurgen Klopp is intent on regaining the Premier League crown.
Arsenal have managed to sort their in-house issues, and now have a pretty much settled group of players to choose from. The system is now a constant 4-2-3-1, and the key personnel have started to take to Mikel Arteta’s brand of football. After a home win against Leicester, Arteta will be reluctant to make too many changes, despite the relatively quick turn around. Emile Smith Rowe could well come into consideration, and the injury list only has Tomiyasu as definitely unavailable. The set up of Arsenal’s attack will be key to beating Liverpool’s superb defence, but the midfield battle could be what decides the game.
The reds continue their mini away game tour, after a routine win at Brighton. That game saw Liverpool rotate smartly once more, and will be surely making one or two changes this time out. Jurgen Klopp seems to like switching out his 8’s of late, so Thiago Alcantara should come into the side for Naby Keita. Jordan Henderson may well be rested this time out, and Curtis Jones will be hoping to make a start. Up front, Diogo Jota is pushing to start this game, with Sadio Mane and Luis Diaz vying to partner Mohamed Salah up top, should he recover from a knock..
The Reds’ defence should remain unchanged, with the extra days rest from the weekend allowing for limited changes. In what should prove to be a highly entertaining game, Arsenal will be buoyant and confident with their current run. A game of possession based football will be employed by the home side, with Liverpool looking to counter that with their gegenpress. A frantic defensive third of Arsenal should be a good watch, if the home side try to maintain possession from deep.
Arsenal have top four qualification in their hands, and if Chelsea were to receive a points deduction, then a third place finish could be reality. Liverpool are a team on the march, and Manchester City’s draw away to Crystal Palace has given the reds a title glimmer of light.
A frenetic battle should ensue, and there are sure to be numerous openings for both sides. The midfield battle should tell though, and the general control of the game should see Liverpool prevail victorious.
Player to watch – Thiago Alcantara
Score Prediction:
Arsenal 1 – 2 Liverpool
