Match preview :
Arsenal and Liverpool lock horns today with both teams looking to keep their momentum going in order to keep pace with the top four. Both teams, after dropping points two matchdays back, have found the winning formula again.
The Gunners will be craving for revenge, as Klopp’s men outclassed them in the reverse fixture with a 4-0 defeat, a loss that went down as one of Arsenal’s worst performances under Arsene Wenger. These two heavyweights are just separated by one point, Liverpool placed 4th and Arsenal, 5th, with 34 and 33 points respectively, which means there’s all to play for in this game.
Arsenal will be inspired by the fact that they have kept 3 clean sheets in a row at home in all competitions. It’s surely going to be an acid test for the Reds, certainly not as easy as the win in August.
Latest team newsÂ
Giroud picked up a hamstring injury against West Ham United and will miss the game. Aaron Ramsey is also sidelined due to a hamstring injury while Arsenal fans have to keep waiting for the return of Santi Cazorla.
Francis Coquelin is doubtful and a very late call will be taken regarding his involvement.
Alexis Sanchez and Granit Xhaka are just one booking away from missing the Boxing day London derby against Crystal Palace.
Predicted line up : (3-4-3)
Defence :
Petr Cech will be in goal. He will be the calming influence and has to marshal his defence well.
Midfield:
Jack Wilshere, who has made an excellent comeback from injury, will keep his place and will be a threat to Liverpool’s midfield trio.
Alongside him, will be Xhaka. The Swiss’ defensive game has reached newer heights as he breaks attacks and is a key figure in the box while defending.
Attack :
Mesut Ozil has been in good form in recent weeks and he will play down the right and occasionally as a number 10 when Bellerin moves up the field.
Alexis Sanchez will play as a left winger.
Alexandre Lacazette will lead the attack and will look to add to his tally of 8 goals.
