Arsenal vs. Liverpool: 3 Things To Look Out From
The biggest clash of the weekend sees Liverpool take on Arsenal at the Emirates, a game which could have huge ramifications for the loser in the tight race for the Champions League place. Liverpool were in the race until they lost at home against Manchester United but will look to regain some form as they take on an Arsenal side who look brilliant at home.
The last time these two clubs met at Anfield, it took a late, late Martin Skrtel goal to keep the teams locked at 2-2 and gave Liverpool a precious point, he will be missed in this game and this could be huge for Arsenal as they try to exploit the Liverpool defence. Liverpool will also be without Steven Gerrard, who will be suspended after his red card against Manchester United. With so many mini stories in this game we look at 3 things that could be worth keeping an eye out for during this intriguing tie.
Raheem Sterling’s performance & the reception he gets
Raheem SterlingIn a recent interview where Sterling said he rejected a £100,000 a week contract from Liverpool and said he was flattered by interest from Arsenal, it has seen him go from confused to the villain in the eyes of most Liverpool fans. He will be up against the team that he could choose in a few months’ time and how he plays will be huge, will he be able to shake off the poor form and show what he is capable off or will he trail off like he has done for the last few games? And how will the crowd both home and away cheer for him?
Arsenal attacking a weary Liverpool defence
The Liverpool defence had looked alright but that was because they played with the same 3 defenders in the centre, with Martin Skrtel out, it might come down to a choice between Dejan Lovren and Kolo Toure both of whom have been known to create more than a few errors and gift the ball to the opposition. The last team you want to do that to is Arsenal, who will punish you, Sanchez & company will be licking their lips at the prospect of taking on this Liverpool defence.
Just which attack clicks the best
Arsenal might have the better attack on paper with the likes of Ozil, Walcott, Sanchez and Giroud but when the Liverpool trio of Coutinho, Sterling and Sturridge click, there is no stopping them. The international break might have come at the right time for the Liverpool forwards, especially Sturridge who missed the break and Sterling who did not play in the Italy friendly, they might be rested and ready as we see which club has the better attackers in the crucial tie.