With a possible top-4 six-pointer going down between Arsenal and Liverpool at the Emirates this weekend; let’s take a look at the best possible XI combining the two sides.
Formation: 4-2-3-1
Goal keeper – Simon Mignolet
The Belgian shot-stopper has been in immaculate form since Liverpool reverted to the back-3 in December. An astute shot stopper, Mignolet has appeared far more commanding and assured with crosses and set-pieces over the last few months. Still lacking quality in his distribution; the Belgian who was once benched for poor form is closing in on Fraser Forster for the Golden Glove award for most clean sheets.
Defender – Hector Bellerin
Such has been the rise of the young Spaniard that he has forced his way into the Arsenal senior squad and cemented his place in the continued absence of Frenchman Debuchy. Great quality and composure while going forward, Bellerin is improving every game and on form is better than the other contenders for this spot. The teenager has finally come of age.
Defender – Laurent Koscielny
The Frenchman has simply been Arsenal’s best centre-back for over 2 seasons now. Very consistent and rarely at fault, Koscielny is a managers dream defender. Blessed with pace and a good eye for a tackle, Wenger’s French defender is a fixture of the Arsenal squad when fit.
Defender – Mamadou Sakho
Despite his gangly style of play, MamadouSakho is arguably the best defender Liverpool have in their ranks. A leader at the back with criminally under-rated distribution qualities; Sakho is a perfect left-sided centre back who is both strong in a tackle and great in the air.
Defender – Emre Can
The versatile German has been a pivotal part of Liverpool’s resurgence over the last few months. His ability to switch effortlessly between midfield and defence has been a real boon for Brendan Rodgers. Can adds calm and quality in possession at the back. Having played at left back in his Bayer Leverkusen days, Can is no stranger to the full-back role.
Midfield – Francis Coquelin
The 23 year old defensive midfielder has risen from the shadows to claim and cement his place in the Gunners starting XI. Combative and aggresive, Coquelin possesses all the necessary qualities for a top-class defensive midfielder with his composure when in possession and under-valued distribution. Possibly the best defensive midfielder among the 2 sides on form.
Midfield – Jordan Henderson
The Liverpool vice-captain has been in fine form since the turn of the year. Barring a rare blip against Manchester United a fortnight ago, Henderson has lead by example as Liverpool have turned their faltering season around. Chipping in with crucial goals from midfield, Henderson finally looks like the player Liverpool paid 16 million for in the summer of 2012.
Attacking Midfield – Mesut Ozil
The German attacking midfielder has had his critics in the past, but there is no question about the quality he brings to the side. Having contributed greatly to Arsenal’s recent form on a consistent basis, the German World Cup winner is a must in this team cutting in from the right wing.
Attacking Midfield – Santi Cazorla
Much of the credit around Arsenal’s surge into 3rd position belongs to the creative impetus of Spaniard Santi Cazorla. As two-footed a player as one can find, Cazorla’s ability to shoot with both feet and set-piece expertise add even more quality to his brilliant attacking game. Chipping in with crucial goals and assists, Cazorla currently bosses the Arsenal attack.
Attacking Midfield – Phillipe Coutinho
In the past month and a half, the diminutive Brazilian has been in a class of his own. Blessed with the ability to pick any defence apart with a pass, Coutinho has finally started scoring the goals his talent justifies. Cutting in onto his right foot from the left, Manchester City and Southampton have witnessed the magic of the little Brazilian.
Centre-Forward – Olivier Giroud
Having been in nothing short of sublime form recently, the Frenchman has spear headed the Arsenal attack with power and precision. Self admittedly in the best form he has been since joining the Gunners; Giroud has 6 goals in 6 games in the month of March in the Premier League.