EPL 2012-13 Preview: Arsenal Vs Liverpool

A Champions league spot is at stake and both Arsenal and Liverpool should be motivated by that thought when the clubs meet at the Emirates on Wednesday night.

The Gunners won the reverse fixture 2-0 on the back of goals by Cazorla and Podolski but would be wise to guard against complacency against an Anfield side who have been equally inconsistent, brilliant one day and mediocre on another. Both teams are coming off poor showing s in the FA Cup and will want to put those memories behind as they seek to define the competition for fourth place, currently occupied by Tottenham.

However, Arsenal will be buoyed by their 5-1 mauling of West Ham last week in the Premier League. Walcott’s winner against Brighton in the FA Cup has raised hopes of a star turn in the crucial game on Wednesday. Oliver Giroud who also scored in the FA cup match will add to the potency of Gunners’ attack.

Skipper Vermaelen is back from injury and should feature in Arsenal’s backline despite his greater need in the Champions league match against Bayern next month. Diaby and Rosicky’s return will boost the midfield for Wednesday’s hosts.

Liverpool would still be smarting from the manner of their elimination from the FA Cup at the hands of Oldham. The Reds have been less than convincing on the road this season. All eyes will be on Suarez and Sturridge to provide the initiative at the Emirates. Johnson recovered from injury could feature in the starting eleven; Reina and Enrique might be consigned to the bench, though.

Gunners’ better momentum added to home advantage should give them the edge but don’t expect Liverpool to go down without a fight.

Arsenal’s probable eleven: Szczesny, Sagna, Vermaelen, Mertesacker, Gibbs, Wilshere, Diaby, Cazorla, Podolski, Giroud.

Liverpool’s probable eleven: Jones, Wisdom, Agger, Skrtel, Johnson, Gerrard, Lucas, Allen, Sturridge, Suarez, Sterling.

Tags: Arsenal, EPL, Liverpool, Preview, Suarez, Tottenham

Category: EPL, Football