Liverpool Preview + Lineups

So, a very late review, is followed by a very late preview, with nearly an hour to go for kickoff. But, this is going to be a short preview.

Arsenal entertain Liverpool, in what is expected to be an unpredictable encounter, between two sides that are capable of producing the most unexpected of results, at the most unpredictable of times. So expect the unexpected, and predict the unpredictable.

Let’s start with Olivier Giroud, who has been in fine nick, and has drawn praise from Le Boss, for his physical presence up front for Arsenal. The France international, who now has 4 braces to his name, is eager to get his first hattrick for the club, and dive into the Emirates crowd, for a series of cuddly hugs and embraces!

The recent spate of injuries in midfield meant the introduction of Aaron Ramsey as a deep lying midfielder, and the Welshman is relishing his role. Personally, I feel it is a good move, because he will be less prone to making mistakes, and that can only be good for the team.

Also refreshing to see is Abou Diaby back in midfield. Let’s be honest. His injuries apart, Diaby is an immensely talented footballer, and on his day, he can boss any midfield, with his immense skill and ball control. However, we may not see him tonight, as he continues his recovery from injury. Additionally, Arsene Wenger has warned Didier Deschamps from calling up Diaby for the France national squad.

There’s more stuff at the club, including Arsenal turning out to be an old age home for footballers, and I will try to cover it up over the week. Transfer rumours then. With reports indicating that David Villa has demanded an ouster from the Nou Camp, rumors linking him to Arsenal have resurfaced. However, Arsene remains coy as ever, rejecting the rumours.

Team news then. Thomas Vermaelen returns, and you can expect him to start along side Per Mertesacker. Meanwhile, Mikel Arteta and Francis Coquelin are still out.

For Liverpool, Jose Reina should return in goal, while Andre Wisdom continues at right back, despite the return of Jose Enrique.

This is how I expect the teams to lineup.

Expect a fast paced game, between two sides that concede a lot of goals, but that can also score lots of goals. Liverpool will be looking to bounce back from their shock FA Cup exit at the hands of Oldham, and it will be ipto Arsenal to take the game to the opposition.

Mertesacker and Vermaelen will have their hands full, with a trio of Suarez, Sturrudge and Sterling in front of them, while Arsenal will have to rely on the pace of Podolski and Walcott to feed Giroud.

Enjoy the game wherever you are!

Jai Arsenal 🙂

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Sportskeeda Blogger Awards-Final Nominations for Football

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