With a five-point gap to Liverpool at the top of the Premier League, there is a strong argument that Sunday’s match is a must win for Arsenal. Mikel Arteta isn’t buying into that though.
“What we need to do is play like we played in the last two games against them and be more efficient in the areas that will decide the game,” the Spaniard said. “I’m very excited. It’s always good to prepare a game against Liverpool, with how they are. We play at home and what I sense is real positivity and enthusiasm around the place.”
One thing it probably is safe to say is that Arsenal cannot afford to lose to Jurgen Klopp’s side if they want to win the Premier League this season. As a result, it’s crucial that Arteta gets his team selection right. Here’s how football.london expect him to line his side
Aaron Ramsdale had a decent game against Liverpool in the FA Cup. You can still expect David Raya to start in the Premier League this weekend, though.
Having put his disagreement with Oleksandr Zinchenko behind him, White will have a huge role to play keeping Liverpool’s wingers quiet. Diogo Jota is a very tricky customers, even if Darwin Nunez does miss out through injury
William Saliba has had a superb track record against Liverpool in his time in England. Having made a minor error against Forest for Awoniyi’s goal he’ll have a point to prove.
Gabriel was largely superb against Forest in midweek. He’ll want to keep that record up vs Liverpool, who he scored against at Anfield.
leksandr Zinchenko was at the centre of a storm at full time on Tuesday. If Takehiro Tomiyasu was available he might not be starting against Liverpool, but with the Japan international still out at the Asian Cup the decision is somewhat made for Arteta.
In the FA Cup clash Arteta opted to play the Italian international for extra control in midfield and it worked well. Expect him to repeat that trick in the Premier League clash
Delcan Rice formed an unusual double pivot at the base of the Arsenal midfield in the FA Cup. After it worked well Arteta may be tempted to go for it again. It will be harsh on Emile Smith Rowe after a decent display at Forest, but Arteta will want more solidity.
The winger may have been a touch underwhelming against Nottingham Forest. He should be given some space to shine against Liverpool and has shown that he can take advantage of that.
