A fight for first place is going down today in the Premier League, as Arsenal travel to Liverpool. After Aston Villa’s draw yesterday, both sides have the chance to go top of the league through Christmas. This fixture ended 2-2 last year, with Mo Salah missing a crucial penalty, as Arsenal were chasing City for the title. Interestingly, the Gunners have not won at Anfield since 2011, over 12 years ago. And while this does not bode well for Arsenal, don’t count the Gunners out just yet.
Both sides, but especially Liverpool have a long list of injuries. The Reds will play without the likes of Robertson, Macallister, Jota, Matip, Thiago and probably Gravenberch. The Gunners on the other hand are without Jorginho, Viera, Tomiyasu, Elneny and Partey, most of whom are reserve players anyhow. Liverpool currently sit just a point behind the Gunners, and will be up for taking over first place from the North Londoners. Both teams need to take advantage of City’s poor run of form in the league if they are to have a chance to win the league this year.
It is, however, a very difficult match to call. Arsenal have essentially their starting XI available, while Liverpool will need to play a makeshift midfield. Liverpool are the slight favourites according to the bookmakers, but we suggest an Arsenal double chance at 1.52, as draw may end up being the likely result. Both sides are quite balanced in terms of firepower: Arsenal have scored just one more goal than Liverpool in the league so far, and have conceded the exact same amount. Who will take a further step towards the Premier League title in this fight for first place?
Liverpool to Win – 2.45
Draw – 3.50
Arsenal to Win – 2.80
