Arsenal vs Liverpool Match Preview

   Matchdays are back again after international break. And it is back with a bang with two of the most in-form team all set to lock horns in what is likely to be season-defining match for them.

   Both the teams are vying for a top 4 finish and Arsenal have an upperhand in this rat race and can have a one hell of an advantage over their opponent with another 3 points. If they win today, then in all likelihood it will end all the hopes of Liverpool's top 4 finish.

   The Merseyside outfit's task doesn't seem to be easy. Besides in-form Gunners, they face plenty of problems of their own. They were riding high before the interlull but lost their last match at Anfield against Manchester United. That match knocked the stuffing out of them as they were beaten convincingly by the devils for their first league defeat since December which was also inflicted by the same opposition.

   The loss was made more sour for them as they lost their momentum and two of their senior players to suspension. Gerrard was sent off for stamping and Skrtel was suspended for similar incident after the match as it was missed by referee during the play. They also have fitness concerns of Sturridge and Lallana as both of them missed their international duties but they are most likely to be fit for the game.

Gunners having fun in training ahead of the clash

   On the other hand, there is red-hot high flying Arsenal who have every player fit except Chamberlain (he should be back sooner rather than later). They are on a run of 6 wins and have won last 8 at the Emirates. Gunners are playing free flowing football again which is nightmare to handle without your first choice defender.

   Team formation: Ospina in goal for sure. To counter the threat of pacy Liverpool attack, Wenger is likely to play Gabriel alongside Koscielny. Monreal and Bellerin should start on flanks. Midfield will give plenty of selection dilemma to the boss. All six of Coquelin, Santi, Ramsey, Özil, Sanchez and Welbeck deserve to start but there is only place of 5. It may go down to Ramsey/Welbeck for one spot. I'll chose Ramsey for his frequent combination play with Giroud, who is an automatic selection for CF on merit.

   Prediction: Cazorla will dictate and bully Liverpool. Will be on scoresheet along with Giroud. Arsenal will score more than 2 goals. Ospina will shut out.