Liverpool v Arsenal: Key battles on the pitch

Liverpool FC host Arsenal FC at Anfield in what is a 6 pointer for both sides, with both still having failed in securing a win on two occasions this season.

Strongest Lineup, bar Lucas

In many ways, the arrival of Nuri Sahin has come at the perfect timing for Liverpool. Renowned for his excellent technical ability and vision whilst on the ball, it looks like it will be a straight swap, and Liverpool will play with Sahin alongside Joe Allen, who has impressed in the season thus far.

Daniel Agger is also able to play in this game, having served his one match suspension (yes, it is one match, many telling me it is a three match ban) against the defending champions Manchester City, so he will be a welcome addition back into the side.

Jose Enrique is another doubt, having been MIA for what has essentially been the season so far through injury, but I reckon he might just make it into the first XI of today’s squad, whilst I won’t be surprised if I see Raheem Sterling on that team sheet, with the youngster producing stunning displays of late, and we should use him on the left to cause a spot of bother for young Carl Jenkinson.

My Probable Lineup:

ReinaJohnson, Skrtel, Agger, EnriqueSahin, AllenGerrardBorini, Suarez, Sterling

Yes, I am well aware that Suarez has been unable to finish of late, but what we really need to spearhead the attack is a creator. Someone to get past the defenders and open up the play for Liverpool. The Uruguayan needs only to finish better and learn to pass a bit more, as his desire to do things all on his own has cost Liverpool points in recent times.

Key Battles

Sterling vs Fullbacks

Sterling knows how to beat his men. He has lots of pace. So with this in mind, it will be interesting to see if he will be able to produce another magical display against Arsenal FC. Got the trickery, got a decent delivery, and he looks destined for big things at Liverpool. One would think that Arsenal will have a very tricky task of marking the young lad.

Giroud vs Agger and Skrtel

Giroud is physical. With that in mind, he kind of reminded me of Andy Carroll from his time in Montpellier (I followed him there as well), except that the Frenchman is far better with the ball at his feet. Skrtel and Agger have made mistakes against the more pacy and hardworking forwards this season, so it will be interesting to see if they can handle a big guy like Oliver Giroud.

Santi Carzola vs Joe Allen

The battle of the new signings. Both are fantastic players, but obviously have different styles. Allen is more tidy and Carzola is more creative and inspirational.

Pepe Reina vs himself

Reina might just be beating himself for that mistake against Hearts that could have cost them a place in the Europa League tournament proper, but I think he has the mental strength to recover. Much has been made of Liverpool apparently not having a goalkeeping coach (or something like that), but I think Pepe is a world class keeper, and he should bounce back with a good display in front of the Anfield faithful.