Liverpool travel to the Emirates on Thursday night to face league leaders Arsenal, as The Gunners seek to avenge their 1-0 loss at Anfield earlier in the season.
With the race for the top four getting tighter, Arne Slot’s side have a chance to put daylight between themselves and the chasing pack, but the task could hardly be tougher.
Liverpool’s preparations have not been ideal. Both of their high-profile centre-forward options remain sidelined, with Hugo Ekitiké still a doubt and Alexander Isak ruled out indefinitely through injury.
The striking duo’s absence places added responsibility on Liverpool’s supporting cast and raises questions about how Slot will approach the game tactically.
Slot arrives in North London on the back of an impressive run of form. Liverpool are unbeaten in nine matches across all competitions, a sequence that includes statement victories over Inter Milan and Tottenham Hotspur.
While the unbeaten run tells a positive story, it has not been flawless. Dropped points against Leeds twice and Fulham have shown that this Liverpool side remain a work in progress.
However, Thursday’s trip represents a different type of test for the Reds. Arsenal are in relentless form, riding a seven-game winning streak at the top of the table, and Mikel Arteta’s side have been particularly dominant at the Emirates suffocating visiting sides, including a recent 4–1 win over second-placed Aston Villa.
Thursday night, then, offers more than just another league fixture. It is a measuring stick for where Slot’s side truly stand, and whether their recent momentum can withstand the pressure of a title chasing Arsenal team.
Listen below as Tom Gardiner and Zephryn Dockree discuss the main talking points ahead of the reigning champions versus the champions elect >>>
