Join our football expert as he previews the electrifying match-up between Arsenal and Liverpool set for Friday evening, 22 December 2017.
Liverpool has been on a scoring spree, netting at least three goals in their last four showdowns with Arsenal. Arsenal’s legendary manager Wenger, known for his attacking style, will need to advise his squad to stay sharp and cautious in attack. Meanwhile, Klopp has transformed Liverpool into one of football’s fiercest attacking sides, with Mohamed Salah in sensational form and already troubling the Gunners this season.
Last season, Liverpool completed a league double over Arsenal for the first time since 1999/2000, sending a clear message this season they aim to do it again. However, Arsenal will be fired up to avenge their heavy 4-0 defeat in August. Currently, Liverpool sit comfortably at fourth in the Premier League with 34 points, just one point ahead of Arsenal in fifth place at the time of this preview.
Arsenal vs Liverpool | Friday 22 December | Emirates Stadium | 21:45
To Win Match
Arsenal 27/20 | Draw 26/10 | Liverpool 17/10
Arsenal
Arsenal recently bounced back to the Champions League spots thanks to Mesut Ozil’s stunning volley that secured a 1-0 win over Newcastle at the Emirates. Before that, they had a couple of road draws and a tough 3-1 loss to Manchester United. This match is crucial for Wenger’s side to leapfrog Liverpool and cement their spot in the top four.
However, Arsenal has struggled against Liverpool recently, failing to win any of the last five meetings, including three defeats and conceding 14 goals in the last four matches. The August thrashing still stings, especially with Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain’s final game for Arsenal before his move to Liverpool. Yet, with a strong home record boasting 13 wins from 14 matches and 10 clean sheets, Arsenal will be determined to turn the tide despite the challenge posed by Liverpool’s potent attack.
Mesut Ozil has been in dazzling form lately, reminiscent of his Real Madrid days. His renewed energy and hard work off the ball could be the key Arsenal needs to challenge the Reds effectively. Still, Ozil’s performance in big games will be critical for Arsenal’s hopes.
Liverpool
Liverpool is coming off a commanding 4-0 win at Bournemouth, pushed by Mohamed Salah and Philippe Coutinho, climbing back into the Premier League’s top four. Following two draws at Anfield against Everton and West Brom, they have shown resilience and firepower this month, including a 5-1 win over Brighton.
Salah’s goal-scoring exploits are outstanding, reaching 20 goals in all competitions in just 26 matches, a feat last achieved by Liverpool legends Luis Suarez and Daniel Sturridge in 2013-14. Coutinho, returning mid-September from injury, has quickly reached double digits, showcasing the formidable attacking quartet of Salah, Coutinho, Sadio Mane, and Roberto Firmino. Stopping this powerhouse will be a tough task for any defence.
