Liverpool vs. Arsenal. A turn-around point?
Liverpool come off a 120 minute cup win and find out about two injuries. Daniel Agger fractured a rib and is expected to be out “a couple weeks.” We’re also currently waiting for information on the skipper Steven Gerrard. He left the England v. Holland match in the 32′ after pulling up with an injury. The latest say he could play since Kenny Dalglish doesn’t know the seriousness of it.
But to be happy…
Arsenal come to Anfield after being defeated at the Emirates earlier this year. Liverpool have a chance to come within four points with a game in hand if they win. If Arsenal win, then Liverpool’s 4th place chances are, all but mathematically, impossible. Arsenal are riding on a 5-2 victory against Tottenham and Liverpool are coming off of a cup victory. Who will win? Only time will tell. Liverpool could show up to play against a top four team, but it’s also at Anfield where Liverpool have struggled to make draws into wins.
Who will start for Liverpool?
Reina
Johnson–Carragher–Skrtel–Enrique
Henderson–Adam
Kuyt–Downing
Carroll–Suarez
In a difficult line-up to pick, Pepe Reina is the easiest choice, along with Glen Johnson, Martin Skrtel and Jose Enrique. Jamie Carragher will probably slide into Agger’s spot, but possibly Martin Kelly or Sebastian Coates (don’t count on it). The defense is going to need to be strong as Robin Van Persie is a persistent threat, along with Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain, Gervinho and Theo Walcott who all pose a threat. Carragher is going to have to step it up if he wants to perform well.
The midfield will probably line up with two in the middle without Gerrard. I want them to play with three and include Wee Jay Spearing, but don’t think it will happen. The midfield is going to have to be tidy in possession as Arsenal have a strong midfield with Alex Song. The midfield battle is going to be important to who wins the match.
Liverpool’s attack is also unpredictable. Luis Suarez should get a start, no questions asked. Andy Carroll will probably line up beside him. Stewart Downing will probably be on one side while Dirk Kuyt or Jordan Henderson on the other. Craig Bellamy played in the cup final and for Wales earlier this week, so I don’t think he will be getting a start here again.
How can Liverpool win?
Liverpool have to stop Van Persie. He is the biggest threat for Arsenal and he will have to be nullified for Liverpool to win. That said, the rest of the attack for Arsenal is quite strong also, so the Reds will have to contain the rest. Liverpool should be able to create chances since Arsenals back-line is wounded. Liverpool should be able to create plenty of chances, but the question is if they finish them. With Suarez on poor form and Carroll having a poor cup final, they’re going to have to fire on all cylinders. Downing cannot be Liverpool’s biggest threat against Arsenal.
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