Preview: Arsenal FC vs Liverpool FC

Preview: Arsenal FC vs Liverpool FC

  Just two weeks into the season and Premier League fans have already witnessed top teams at loggerheads. Week 3 will be no different. Monday night action sees Liverpool visit the Emirates stadium. In what has been a false start for the hopeful contenders of every season (Arsenal), Liverpool have begun solidly. Let’s look at what we can expect from this game.

A 6-pointer at The Emirates

Arsenal-

  After an embarrassing defeat to West Ham on the opening day, the Gunners were bright against Crystal Palace. They looked very good offensively against a tough Palace side last week but were exposed at the back quite a few times. However, they earned a valuable 3 points to get off the mark this campaign.

  With their rivals having invested plenty of money over the transfer window, the Gooners are growing more impatient with each passing day.  The squad looks very solid and it is probably for the first time over a decade that they have been able to retain the core of the side. But the big question seems to be whether the likes of Coquelin and Giroud are good enough to keep them alive in all competitions? Media is buzzing with the news of Karim Benzema joining the Arsenal ranks, but there is nothing concrete yet that shows there might be a deal in place.

Arsenal's lone summer signing has cut a sorry figure thus far!!

  Last week, Coquelin couldn't cope up with Bolasie and Zaha running through the centre of the pitch. It has raised some serious question marks over his lack of composure, something he was known for earlier in his early days. On the other side of the pitch, some fans seem to have lost faith in Cech already. Only way to soothe their nerves is to put a tie of this stature to bed and collect 3points. 

  Coming to how they might lineup on Monday night, Arsenal are spoilt for choices. Unfortunately, every change invokes one problem or the other. Will Theo get a shot ahead of Giroud on Monday? Will The Ox, who has looked very impressive, make his way into the side? This is one conundrum Wenger will have to deal with all season long. 

Liverpool-

  As for Liverpool, a 100% record is certainly a solid way to begin the season, but neither their play nor the scorelines (1-0's) instil belief that come April, Liverpool would be in the title race. New boy, Nathaniel Clyne has integrated into the team very easily, also Benteke put in a promising performance against AFC Bournemouth. But it is their talisman from last season, Coutinho, who is calling the shots over the new boys at the club. Christian Benteke is going to be a big draw for this fixture. His aerial threat will certainly keep Arsenal's CB pair on their toes. With Sturridge sidelined for long & Firmino yet to pace up to the English game there isn't much one can tweak with their lineup.

  The more serious matter for the fans was regarding the departure of club legend Steven Gerrard this summer, the KOP fans were bewildered as to how the team, especially the midfield, will cope up in his absence. But newly appointed club captain, Henderson has taken over the mantle with great aplomb and with his teammate Coutinho putting in equally impressive performances; the duo have continued their good form from last season.

Henderson has proved to be an able successor to the KOP Legend.

Possible Outcome-

  Although it is early in the season, games like these are 6-pointers. Home or away, it is not only a matter of winning 3 points but also not allowing your rivals earn points. The way these two clubs, it surely won't be a languid affair. With an array of stylish and attacking players on the field, even the neutrals will be hooked to this game, whatever be the result. Goals are not a problem as this fixture has seen plenty of goals on either side over the past few meetings.

Who doesn't remember this 8 goal thriller?

  Arshavin won't be playing this time around, but with home advantage on their side, I pip Arsenal to nick 3 points on Monday.

Written by,

Pranav Byatnal.

(@PranavTH14)