Match Preview – Arsenal (A)

FA Premiership
Sun 21st December 4pm at The Emirates

Liverpool travel to Highbury, still top – just, after last weekend’s 2-2 draw against Hull City at home.  Arsenal, while they have been even more inconsistent than the reds do have an alarming habit of turning up for the big games.  They went on to beat Chelsea away from home not long after Liverpool had, and put in a terrific performance against Man United at home – as we had.  Something has to give then in this game.

A win for either side would give them bragging rights against the other top four.  I’m not sure how long it has been since the reds beat each of the other top four in a season but I would have a guess it has been a while.

Liverpool are still without Fernando Torres and Steven Gerrard.  Robbie Keane may get a chance to be involved after missing last week’s game against Hull.  All eyes will be on the left back slot too – will Dossena get a reprieve after last weekend’s dismal showing or will Insua be recalled.

History

To say the reds have a dismal record away at Arsenal is putting it mildly.  Last season’s two 0-0 away draws within days of each other (Champions League and Premiership) was as good as it has got in recent years.  The reds have frequently been wiped out in North London – with the reds last victory there in February 2000.  Only Hyypia, Carragher and Gerrard still remain since that game.

On the flip side Arsenal haven’t beaten the reds in the last 5 attempts.  Three draws and two victories for Liverpool, although this was preceeded by that 6-3 FA Cup 3rd round defeat.

Betting

Arsenal are the bookies favourites to run out winners on the day.

Arsenal 7/5
Liverpool 11/5
Draw 9/4

Adebayor is the bookies choice for first scorer – both Gerrard and Keane can be had at 8/1.

Paddy Power are offering an impressive free £20 bet when you place a £10 bet. Sign up here.

TV

This game will be broadcast live on Sky Sports 1 in the UK.  Further streams and links will be available nearer kick off in the forum.

Opposition Links

Arsenal Mania – Fansite
Arsenal Shirts

In the Liverpool forum

Like us, Arsenal have turned up for the big games so far this season. So I reckon it will either be like a game of chess or a game that will see you go through a plethora of emotions. I’m not sure which one I’d prefer… / Redkenny

All we need is Agger to do a man-marking job on Adebayor and Mascherano to be breathing down Fabregas’ neck on and off the ball. / Reslivo

Arsenal v Liverpool Pre Match Discussion