Liverpool host Arsenal on Sunday as the two Premier League giants meet at Anfield in the third gameweek of the season.
Liverpool will be looking for third successful home win after defeating Crystal Palace and Hoffenheim. While for Arsenal, they come into this after a disappointing defeat at Stoke last week.
Goal Fest
Liverpool against Arsenal always promises to be a fixture full of goals and the fans will be expecting one this Sunday. Four or more goals have been scored in each of the last four meetings between these sides at Anfield. Also, the last 10 meetings at Anfield have seen 44 goals. The fixture has seen 17 goals in the 90th minute or later, more than any other Premier League fixture. So the fans for sure, are to witness something similar this weekend as well.
Team News
Arsenal are given a major boost by the return of their top scorer of last season Alexis Sanchez. The forward is available for selection after a minor setback and is likely to replace Danny Welbeck in the lineup. Also returning for Arsenal, is Laurent Koscielny, who has served his three match suspension.
Liverpool on the other hand, will be without Philippe Coutinho, whose transfer saga continues over a possible transfer to Barcelona. Full-back Trent Alexander-Arnold limped off against Hoffenheim and might be out for the game. Nathaniel Clyne is also out for Liverpool, putting Joe Gomez or James Milner in the frame to replace him. Andrew Robertson impressed on his debut, and might start for Liverpool.
Big games disappointment
Arsenal have a very bad record recently against the top six teams of the League. From a possible 30 points in 10 games against the big six, Arsenal only managed to get 9 points last season. The Gunners are winless in the last 12 away games against last season’s top six. Also they have lost eight of their last 13 away Premier League games, which makes matters worse for Arsene Wenger’s men.
Liverpool on the other hand, won 20 from a possible 30 points against the top six of last season, more than any other side. Klopp’s side also won both fixtures against Arsenal last season.
Key players
Both teams have a vulnerable defence which will open up many scoring chances. Arsenal will have to watch out for Sadio Mane, who has had a hand in five goals in his last five starts against Arsenal. Roberto Firmino has also scored three goals in four starts against Arsenal. Eyes will also be on new boy Mohamed Salah.
Arsenal will have their attack in full strength with the return of Alexis Sanchez. It will be interesting to see the trio of Alexis Sanchez, Mesut Özil and Alexandre Lacazette for the first time in Arsenal colours. While Olivier Giroud, who loves scoring against Liverpool, will be more than ready for an impact off the bench.
Predicted Lineup
Arsenal: Cech; Monreal, Koscielny, Mustafi; Kolasinac, Xhaka, Ramsey, Oxlade-Chamberlain; Özil, Alexis; Lacazette.
Liverpool: Mignolet; Milner, Lovren, Matip, Robertson; Can, Henderson, Wijnaldum; Mane, Firmino, Salah.
Prediction
Knowing the mixed start to the season both teams have had, as well as considering the amount of goals this fixture generally produces, I’m going for a 3-2 at Anfield.
