Arsenal: 4 things we’d like to see vs Liverpool

It would be fair to say that the majority of those with an Arsenal affiliation are not brimming with confidence ahead of the trip to Anfield on Saturday.

There is belief, real belief, that Mikel Arteta’s side can do better than they have done in past visits (it’s only been nine years, eh?), but the elephant in the room is that Liverpool are the far superior side.

Such is their standing in the football world that one point from their previous two matches against Brighton and West Ham isn’t seen as presenting an opportunity for Arsenal to capitalise, and instead constitutes the worst possible time to face the Reds as they will have the fire in their bellies to secure three points.

Under no illusions that the Merseyside trip will be anything other than a ferociously tough task for this young group of players, the dominoes will need to fall in all the right ways for a positive result to be the outcome.

4 things we’d like to see from Arsenal against Liverpool as Mikel Arteta’s side travel to Anfield in the Premier League on Saturday

And while the rub of the green may need to go Arsenal’s way in certain situations, nothing will be achievable unless they play their part. Each facet of the performance has to be executed perfectly. There is no room for margin.

With Arteta bravely stating that he intends to set his side out to win the game – he’s not really going to say anything else – what exactly that entails will be in his gameplan.

There are without doubt lessons to have learnt from this season heading to Anfield. Certain aspects of performances have been lacking and how the team rectify those could be crucial come Saturday.

What do we want to see from the team, and what don’t we want to see from the team? There is plenty to hope for, just as there is a lot to prepare for.

1. Winning Duels is Essential

Beyond tactical approach, defensive structure out of possession and choice of personnel, in matches like these winning the duels is paramount.

Arsenal can lose the majority of duels in other Premier League matches where their quality will reign supreme and the opposition can’t capitalise. That won’t work against Liverpool. This is a team that can outclass anyone.

Coming out on top in the challenges will give the Gunners that extra edge they need to wound the hosts when their shape is ever so slightly misaligned, as well as instill some early confidence. Gaining a physical foothold at Anfield will do wonders for the team’s self belief.

Somebody will set the tone in this. Whether it’s a crunching (but fair(ish)) tackle from Gabriel or someone else winning an aerial duel, Arsenal can always hold some grip on the game if they make sure to win the 50/50 battles.

This is a stadium where it’s very easy to feel like Liverpool are getting on top of you, as well as the crowd. Letting the hosts get that advantage on what is already a headstart in terms of quality can have a devastating impact.

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