5 reasons Liverpool will beat Arsenal on Friday
By David Gate
No. 2: Liverpool Strength v Arsenal Weakness
The shift for Arsenal to a back three has largely been a success. But, as Liverpool proved in August, it has its weaknesses. And the Reds are especially ready to take advantage of those. There is no combination of Arsenal defenders that is going to give the fans a good night’s sleep on Thursday.
In the reverse fixture the Liverpool front three – Mohamed Salah, Roberto Firmino and Sadio Mane – ran riot. Their movement and pace was far too much for Arsenal to keep hold of. Mane in particular had an outstanding day; probably his best performance of the season so far.
Things have changed in Liverpool’s favor since that game. At the time Sead Kolasinac was viewed as smart purchase and a great value summer addition. Now he has lost his place in the first team. Meanwhile, Salah was seen as a pacy forward who had problems with finishing. No longer. He is fighting it out with Kevin de Bruyne for being the best player in the Premier League.
Recently Wenger has brought in youngster Ainsley Maitland-Niles at left wing back. I think Wenger has made that move with Salah in mind. The thought of the Egyptian running past the portly Kolasinac has led to the switch to the young defender.
Good luck with that.