Arsenal Vs Liverpool: 3 players who can make statement

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LIVERPOOL, ENGLAND – AUGUST 24: Jordan Henderson of Liverpool and Nicolas Pepe of Arsenal during the Premier League match between Liverpool FC and Arsenal FC at Anfield on August 24, 2019 in Liverpool, United Kingdom. (Photo by Robbie Jay Barratt – AMA/Getty Images) /

1. Nicolas Pepe

It was Nicolas Pepe’s first start. Unai Emery switched to a 4-4-2 diamond and introduced Pepe as a second striker alongside Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang. The plan was clear: to isolate Pepe and Aubameyang against the Liverpool centre-backs, who are left on their own on the halfway line with Jurgen Klopp’s side push forward.

Pepe’s pace and skill frightened the Liverpool defenders. Andy Robertson did not want to get close to him, even Virgil van Dijk was troubled at times, while he showed his ball-carrying ability with several excellent dribbles from deep, including one that he should have converted with a better finish.

His first season at Arsenal has since transpired in an understated fashion. His numbers are not as disastrous as some would think. Equally, he has not lived up to his £72 million price tag and could do with a statement performance.

Next. Arsenal Vs Liverpool: 5 key players to watch. dark

What better way for Pepe to tie a bow on an encouraging first season in the Premier League than a stormer against the champions?

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