Liverpool vs Arsenal: 3 keys to a Gunners win at Anfield

Another Christmas no. 1 is up for grabs now.

An unprecedented World Cup break saw Arsenal lead the festive standings 12 months ago, and that feat could be replicated this weekend if they claim victory over Liverpool.

Our 11-year winless run at Anfield almost came to an end last season, until Roberto Firmino (who else?) snatched a late equaliser which marked the first stumble in an agonising Gunners title collapse.   

Liverpool vs Arsenal: 3 key factors for securing a win at Anfield on Saturday

But Mikel Arteta will surely feel optimistic ahead of this visit and arguably boasts stronger options than he did in April, while concerns about the placid home support offer hope that we can finally deliver on Merseyside.

Three points would send out a big statement, and here are three key factors that might help us get them.

1. Put Kai Havertz on TAA watch

After a slow start in north London, Kai Havertz is beginning to purr and may prove invaluable in our attempts to stop the Alexander-Arnold midfield threat.

Both familiarity with Declan Rice and heightened confidence mean the German is now hitting his goal-scoring stride, but his defensive work-rate has never faltered and it will certainly be put to good use against one of the league’s best creators.   

Havertz thrives in all kinds of duels, presses well and holds a significant aerial advantage over Alexander-Arnold if we need an offensive outlet. His tenacious roaming as the left #8 should greatly negate the Liverpool man’s inverted influence and perhaps hamper any effort to move the ball centrally, which would impact the hosts’ transitional attack.

They each have special qualities that will make for a fascinating match-up, yet it is one Arsenal are well placed to win.  

Continued on the next slide...