Liverpool vs Arsenal preview: Chelsea and ManUtd slip again, let’s take advantage! Plus favourite line-up

I never expected Everton to take something away from Stamford Bridge this afternoon, yet a side which improved so much since they played against us in the first game of the league managed to draw and help the cause of those chasing Carlo Ancelotti’s side.

Add to this Manchester City’s draw with the same scoreline and Manchester United and Spurs losing at home, and we can easily say that we had a perfect Saturday.
In a way, these results can only mean that we have a golden opportunity to close the gap on Chelsea and take a comfortable lead on those chasing us, but of course, easy will not be tomorrow.
Liverpool
They believe they are still in the title race and in it they will be if they win tomorrow so they will definitely be hungry for a win now that the Premiership has become their main objective of the season. They had a slow start to the season, granted, but last week I said this game is for us the game where we have to show we mean business. For Liverpool it’s the same, it can be the game which could change their season so it’ll be a very fascinating encounter, that’s for sure.
Favourite line-up
Eduardo and Diaby could be back for Arsenal but I believe it would be foolish to start with both of them, two players who are just returning from injury and who were very disappointing before they were sidelined. Reason why, I would only use Diaby from the first minute. I was not impressed at all with Denilson’s game against Stoke City, he brings nothing in midfield, so Abou should start alongside Cesc since at least he brings height and strength to the side.
Almunia
Sagna – Gallas – Vermaelen – Traore
Song
Nasri – Diaby – Fabregas – Vela
Arshavin Despite being phenomenal in mid-week, I don’t think Aaron Ramsey can play in a line-up featuring Cesc. Also, with Tomas Rosicky out, Carlos Vela should take his place on the left with Andrey the only striker up front. The Russian showed he can and he enjoys playing as a striker and Anfield is special for him.
Pre-match Interviews
Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez was upset with comments on his Liverpool side, especially those coming from Jurgen Klinsmann and Graeme Souness.
He said:

There is always criticism but I don’t listen. I turn off the volume on the TV.
Both have fantastic records as managers, so the fans ignore what they say.

Arsene Wenger, on the other hand, preferred to focus on the title race battle, declaring how in his opinion, there is no team dominating, especially since there’s still plenty of football to be played.
The Frenchman said:

I do not believe there is any difference in the league at the moment where you can say that any team is dominating. Yes, Chelsea are on top, but they have also lost three games already and we have only played 14 or 15 matches.
It shows you that it will be down to consistency and consistency for us is starting now to be performing regularly again. I am convinced we have the technical, physical and mental quality to cope with the pressure at that level.